Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering culinary experience that will transport your taste buds straight to Japan! This Crockpot Crispy Pork Ramen is not just a meal; it's a slow-cooked symphony of tender, succulent pork, rich broth, and perfectly cooked noodles that will make your kitchen smell like a gourmet restaurant. Whether you're a busy home cook or a ramen enthusiast, this recipe promises an effortless yet incredibly delicious dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork shoulder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons miso paste
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 4 packs ramen noodles
- 1 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 cup bok choy, chopped
- Soft-boiled eggs for serving
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from pork shoulder and pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a large crockpot, whisk together chicken broth, water, soy sauce, miso paste, and minced ginger until well combined.
- Place seasoned pork shoulder into the liquid mixture, ensuring it's mostly submerged. Cover and set crockpot to low heat setting.
- Cook pork for 6 hours, or until meat is extremely tender and can be easily shredded with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 195-205°F.
- Once cooked, remove pork from crockpot and let rest for 10 minutes. Shred meat using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Strain cooking liquid and skim off excess fat. Return shredded pork to the liquid to keep moist.
- Prepare ramen noodles according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes in boiling water.
- Divide noodles into serving bowls. Ladle hot broth over noodles and top with shredded pork.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and bok choy. Add soft-boiled eggs on top.
- Serve immediately while hot, allowing diners to mix ingredients as desired.
Tips
- Choose the right cut of pork: A well-marbled pork shoulder ensures maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Don't rush the cooking process: The 6-hour slow cook is crucial for breaking down tough muscle fibers.
- For extra crispy pork, briefly broil the shredded meat before serving.
- Use fresh ingredients like ginger and green onions for the most vibrant flavor.
- Soft-boiled eggs can be prepared in advance and refrigerated.
- If possible, use authentic Japanese miso paste for the most authentic taste.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference by adding more soy sauce or miso.
- For a spicy kick, add some sriracha or chili oil when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 125mg
