The 10 best ramen toppings – classic & creative

🍜 The 10 most popular ramen toppings – classic & creative

Ramen thrives on the perfect broth , the right noodles —and, above all, the toppings ! These are what give each bowl its personality. Whether classic Japanese or a creative interpretation, you should definitely know these 10 ramen toppings—for more umami, more texture, and maximum enjoyment.

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1. Chashu (braised pork belly)

The star among toppings! Gently braised, slightly sweet—a must for any shoyu or tonkotsu ramen.

2. Ajitsuke Tamago (marinated ramen egg)

Soft egg yolk coated in a spicy soy sauce marinade. Perfect for any ramen bowl—and also as an eye-catcher!

3. Menma (fermented bamboo shoots)

Crisp, slightly sour and savory – a classic topping with plenty of umami.

4. Nori (dried seaweed sheets)

Adds a touch of the sea to the soup. Briefly infused with broth, nori unfolds its typical aroma.

5. Spring onions

A fresh kick! Finely chopped spring onions complete any bowl—best sprinkled on top just before serving.

6. Corn

Especially popular with miso ramen. The sweet flavor provides an exciting balance to the rich broth.

7. Butter (yes, really!)

A dollop of butter melts on hot miso ramen, making it even creamier—typical of the Hokkaido region.

8. Kimchi

For those who like spicy and fermented food, kimchi adds depth, bite, and a good dose of character.

9. Shiitake mushrooms

Whether fresh or soaked, they provide pure vegan umami and go well with shio and vegetarian ramen.

10. Tofu (fried or marinated)

Perfect for vegan ramen bowls. Seared in soy sauce or crispy fried, tofu is a filling all-rounder.

Conclusion

With the right toppings, your ramen bowl will become your very own signature dish . Our tip: Combine classic with creative – and experiment.

Do you have a favorite topping that isn't listed here? Share it with us on Instagram at #ramenstarMoments