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Yellow onion is a kitchen staple, but have you ever considered it as a ramen topping? This often-overlooked ingredient can add a surprising depth of flavor and texture to your favorite instant noodles.
Why Yellow Onion Works in Ramen
- Sweetness and Savory Balance: Yellow onions offer a mild sweetness that complements the often-savory and sometimes spicy flavors of ramen broth.
- Texture: Whether diced or sliced, onions provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft noodles.
- Aromatic Boost: Onions release their fragrant aroma when heated, enhancing the overall sensory experience of your ramen.
- Versatility: Onions pair well with a wide range of ramen flavors, from rich tonkotsu to spicy kimchi.
How to Prepare Yellow Onion
How to Dice Yellow Onion
Instructions:
- Cut off the tip of the onion (opposite the root end).
- Slice the onion in half from top to root.
- Peel away the outer skin.
- Place one half cut-side down on the cutting board.
- Make horizontal cuts, stopping short of the root.
- Make vertical cuts, again stopping short of the root.
- Dice the onion by slicing across the cuts you just made.
While you can cook diced yellow onion for your ramen, adding it raw is also a popular choice, as I often experienced in Japan. This Tomato Ramen Bowl I enjoyed there shows how the raw onion provides a refreshing bite against the flavorful tomato broth.
Pictured: Kappa 64 Restaurant ใ197-0005 Tokyo, Fussa Kitadenen, 1 Chomeโ๏ผโ9
How to Slice Yellow Onion
Instructions:
- Follow steps 1-3 from the “How to Dice Yellow Onion” instructions above (cut off the top, peel, and slice in half).
- Place one half cut-side down on the cutting board.
- Make angled cuts from the top to the root, creating thin slices. Adjust the spacing of your cuts to create either thin or thick slices.
My Pro Tip
Tip for Cutting Onions
Refrigerating the onion for about 15-20 minutes before cutting can help reduce tears. Personally, I think this helps me the most in addition to having a sharp knife.
How to Cook Yellow Onion
Add Onion to the Boiling Water:
- You can add diced or thinly sliced raw yellow onion directly to the pot of boiling water along with your ramen noodles. The onion will cook and soften as the noodles cook. This method infuses the broth with a subtle onion flavor and softens the onion pieces.
So next time you’re making instant ramen, don’t overlook the humble yellow onion! Whether raw for a bite or boiling it in the pan for sweetness, it’s a versatile topping that can truly elevate your bowl.
