If you love rich, creamy, and spicy bowls of ramen that warm your soul, then you have got to try this Easy Japanese Tan Tan Men: Creamy Spicy Ramen Soup with Ground Pork and Sesame Recipe. This dish brings together the perfect balance of silky broth infused with savory ground pork, nutty sesame flavors, and just the right amount of heat to make every spoonful utterly irresistible. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl that anyone can master in under an hour, and I cannot wait to share this ultimate recipe with you!

Easy Japanese Tan Tan Men: Creamy Spicy Ramen Soup with Ground Pork and Sesame Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Japanese Tan Tan Men: Creamy Spicy Ramen Soup with Ground Pork and Sesame Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a starring role: from the tender ground pork lending heartiness, to the nutty richness of tahini, and the fresh brightness of green onions and cilantro that keep things lively. Here’s what you’ll need to create this bowl of goodness.

200g ramen noodles: These noodles are the soul of the dish, providing that silky, chewy texture that cradles the broth perfectly.
200g ground pork (or meat substitute): Adds savory depth and a satisfying protein element for a complete meal.
2 tablespoons sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a warm, toasty aroma essential for authentic flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings boldness and a touch of pungency that wakes up the palate.
1-inch ginger, minced: Adds warmth and a subtle zing that balances the creamy broth.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides umami and saltiness, tying all the ingredients together.
2 tablespoons tahini (or peanut butter): The secret to creaminess, giving the soup its luscious, nutty body.
1 tablespoon chili oil: Adds a gentle spicy kick that elevates the entire bowl without overpowering it.
500ml chicken or vegetable broth: The flavorful base that carries all the other amazing tastes.
2 green onions, chopped: Fresh and mildly sharp, they add crunch and color as a garnish.
Fresh cilantro, for garnish: Brightens each spoonful with herbal freshness.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds: A small sprinkle adds crunch and that unmistakable nutty finish.
Optional toppings: bok choy, bean sprouts, or soft-boiled egg: Both add texture and extra indulgence if you feel like dressing it up!

How to Make Easy Japanese Tan Tan Men: Creamy Spicy Ramen Soup with Ground Pork and Sesame Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start with boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your ramen noodles and cook them just until tender according to the package instructions—usually around 3 to 4 minutes. It’s important not to overcook them, so they stay perfectly springy to soak up that amazing broth. Drain and set aside while you prepare the soup base.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Ginger

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and golden. This step unlocks those beautiful aromas that make this ramen so special and sets the stage for the rest of the flavors to come alive.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Pork

Next, add the ground pork into the pot. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s evenly browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the pork adds a deep savory flavor that enriches the entire dish and gives it that satisfyingly meaty bite.

Step 4: Mix in the Sauces and Chili Oil

Stir in 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons tahini (or peanut butter), and 1 tablespoon chili oil. Mix well and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to blend those flavors beautifully. This combination creates the creamy, spicy backbone of the soup that you’ll absolutely crave.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in 500ml of chicken or vegetable broth and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes so all those delicious flavors mingle and deepen. This simmering stage is where the magic happens to create that silky, comforting broth.

Step 6: Add Noodles to the Broth

Carefully add the cooked noodles back into the pot. Stir gently to ensure every strand is coated in the creamy, spicy broth without breaking the noodles. This way, every bite is a perfect harmony of texture and flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the ramen into bowls and top each serving with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Feel free to add any optional toppings you love like tender bok choy, crunchy bean sprouts, or a silky soft-boiled egg. Now, your bowl of Easy Japanese Tan Tan Men: Creamy Spicy Ramen Soup with Ground Pork and Sesame Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Easy Japanese Tan Tan Men: Creamy Spicy Ramen Soup with Ground Pork and Sesame Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes make all the difference in presentation and taste. The chopped green onions add a sharpness that cuts through the richness, while fresh cilantro brings a bright contrast. Toasted sesame seeds give you a subtle crunch and emphasize the sesame flavor. Each little topping elevates the dish to a dining experience.

Side Dishes

This ramen pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like pickled cucumbers, edamame, or even a simple seaweed salad. These sides provide a balance, keeping the meal well-rounded and satisfying without heaviness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the ramen in large, deep bowls with a drizzle of extra chili oil on top for heat lovers. You can also add a few drops of toasted sesame oil just before serving to amplify that nutty aroma. If you want to impress guests, garnish with thinly sliced red chili and radish for a pop of bright color that’s as beautiful as the flavors are bold.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep noodles separate if possible to prevent them from getting soggy and add them fresh when reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze the broth and pork mixture for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Avoid freezing noodles as they tend to lose their delightful texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat the soup over medium-low heat on the stove, adding the pre-cooked noodles at the end to warm through without overcooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain that creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of pork?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or beef works great as a substitute if you prefer a different protein. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasonings to taste.

Is there a vegetarian option for this ramen?

Yes! Swap ground pork for crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth. The tahini and chili oil will keep the richness and spice intact.

How spicy is this recipe?

This ramen has a gentle heat from the chili oil that can be adjusted to your liking. Feel free to add more or less depending on your spice tolerance.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. You can cook the broth and meat mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to eat, cook the noodles fresh and combine right before serving.

What type of ramen noodles should I use?

Fresh ramen noodles are ideal for texture, but dried or instant ramen noodles without seasoning packets work well too. Just cook according to instructions and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Japanese Tan Tan Men: Creamy Spicy Ramen Soup with Ground Pork and Sesame Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes that feels like a warm kitchen hug on a chilly day. It’s both comforting and exciting with its creamy broth and bold flavors, plus it’s surprisingly easy to make. I hope you give this recipe a try and find yourself reaching for seconds, just like I do!