Goma ramen, a delicious fusion of rich sesame flavors and traditional Japanese noodle soup, has become a favorite among ramen enthusiasts looking for a creamy, nutty twist on classic ramen. This list covers 10 standout goma ramen varieties—from authentic Tokyo spots to innovative modern takes—perfect for anyone eager to explore this sesame-forward delight. Whether you’re a seasoned ramen lover or new to goma ramen, these picks highlight unique ingredients, broths, and textures to satisfy your cravings.
1. Afuri’s Yuzu Shio Goma Ramen
Afuri in Tokyo is renowned for its yuzu shio ramen, but their goma ramen variant deserves equal acclaim. This bowl features a light chicken and seafood broth enriched with a smooth sesame paste and brightened by fresh yuzu citrus. The balance between the nutty goma and refreshing yuzu makes it a refined choice for those who want depth without heaviness.
2. Ippudo’s Goma Tonkotsu Ramen
Ippudo, a global ramen chain, offers a goma tonkotsu ramen that combines their signature pork bone broth with a creamy sesame base. The thick, umami-rich broth is complemented by tender chashu pork and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. This bowl stands out for its hearty richness and is perfect for fans of classic tonkotsu with a sesame twist.
3. Menya Musashi Goma Ramen
Known for its bold flavors, Menya Musashi’s goma ramen features a thick, black sesame-infused broth that adds an earthy complexity. The noodles here are slightly thicker to hold the dense sesame sauce, and the toppings often include bamboo shoots and soft-boiled eggs. This ramen is worth trying for those who appreciate a more robust, textured sesame experience.
4. Santouka’s Goma Miso Ramen
Santouka, famous for its mild yet flavorful broths, offers a goma miso ramen that blends creamy sesame with savory miso paste. The result is a balanced, slightly sweet bowl with a smooth mouthfeel that is less heavy than pure tonkotsu-based goma ramen. Its gentle profile makes it accessible to newcomers to sesame ramen.
5. Ramen Nagi’s Goma Spicy Ramen
Ramen Nagi adds a spicy kick to its goma ramen by incorporating chili oil and fresh peppers into the sesame broth. The heat contrasts with the nutty creaminess, creating a dynamic flavor profile. This spicy goma ramen is recommended for those who enjoy bold, layered tastes and a bit of heat in their bowl.
6. Tsuta’s Black Sesame Ramen
Tsuta, the first Michelin-starred ramen shop, serves a black sesame-infused ramen that features a soy-based broth with a rich sesame paste. The black sesame provides a slightly smoky, roasted flavor that complements the umami soy broth perfectly. This elegant dish is ideal for diners seeking a sophisticated sesame ramen experience.
7. Fuunji’s Goma Tsukemen
Fuunji, famous for its tsukemen (dipping noodles), offers a goma tsukemen where the dipping sauce is thickened with sesame paste. The noodles are served cold, allowing you to dip into the creamy, nutty goma sauce infused with pork and fish broth. This style is great for those who want to control the intensity of sesame flavor with each bite.
8. Kagari’s Chicken Goma Ramen
Kagari in Tokyo specializes in tori paitan (creamy chicken broth) ramen, and their goma ramen variant enhances this with white sesame paste. The chicken broth’s natural richness pairs beautifully with the nutty sesame, resulting in a velvety, savory bowl. It’s a standout option for those who prefer poultry-based ramen over pork.
9. Menya Itto’s Goma Shoyu Ramen
Menya Itto blends a shoyu (soy sauce) base with white sesame paste to create a goma shoyu ramen that balances salty, savory, and nutty flavors. The soy sauce adds depth and a slightly tangy edge that cuts through the richness of the sesame. This ramen is highly regarded for its well-rounded, complex taste.
10. Tsukiji Goma Ramen Ichigen
Located near the famous Tsukiji fish market, Ichigen’s goma ramen incorporates fresh seafood broth with a generous amount of sesame paste. The broth is lighter but layered with umami from fish stock, making it a unique take on goma ramen that highlights ocean flavors. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers interested in sesame ramen.
How to Choose
When selecting a goma ramen, consider the broth base—common types include tonkotsu (pork bone), chicken, miso, and shoyu (soy sauce). Each base interacts differently with the sesame paste, affecting the overall richness and flavor balance. Also, check if the sesame is black, white, or a mix, as black sesame tends to be earthier and more roasted, while white sesame is creamier and milder. Toppings and noodle thickness matter too: thicker noodles hold heavier sesame sauces better, while lighter broths pair well with thinner noodles and fresh garnishes like yuzu or chili. Finally, decide if you want a spicy kick or a pure sesame experience, as some goma ramens incorporate chili oil or other heat elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “goma” mean in goma ramen?
“Goma” means sesame in Japanese, and goma ramen features a sesame-flavored broth or sauce that adds a nutty, creamy dimension to the soup.
Is goma ramen always made with pork broth?
No, while tonkotsu (pork bone) broth is popular, goma ramen can also be based on chicken, miso, or soy sauce broths, each offering different flavor profiles.
How is goma ramen different from regular ramen?
Goma ramen incorporates sesame paste or sesame oil into the broth, giving it a rich, nutty taste and often a creamier texture compared to traditional ramen broths.
Can I make goma ramen at home?
Yes, by adding toasted sesame paste or sesame oil to a prepared ramen broth and noodle base, you can create goma ramen. Using fresh sesame and balancing flavors is key.
Is goma ramen spicy?
Not necessarily. Some varieties are spicy with added chili oil, but many goma ramens are mild and focus on the nutty sesame flavor.
What toppings go best with goma ramen?
Common toppings include chashu pork, soft-boiled eggs, bamboo shoots, scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and sometimes yuzu or chili to brighten or add heat.
Final Thoughts
Goma ramen offers a versatile and flavorful twist on traditional ramen, showcasing the rich, nutty taste of sesame in many forms. Whether you prefer a light yuzu-enhanced broth or a thick, spicy sesame sauce, the variety available ensures there’s a perfect bowl for every palate. Exploring different goma ramen styles—from black sesame’s earthy depth to creamy white sesame blends—can deepen your appreciation for how one ingredient can transform a classic dish. Next time you crave ramen, consider trying a goma ramen to experience this unique and satisfying flavor profile.
Related
- What Happens If You Eat Oats Every Morning? 10 Benefits Explained
- What Happens at a Gun Show: A Detailed Guide for Attendees
- What Goes Well with Sausage Gravy? 10 Perfect Pairings