“Miso Curry Milk Ramen,” a unique ramen born in Aomori Prefecture, fuses the seemingly surprising combination of “miso, curry, and milk.” Now beloved as a soul food by Aomori citizens, its distinctive taste is gaining attention even outside the prefecture. How did this unique bowl come to be born and loved? We delve into its history and charm.
Background of its Birth: From Aomori’s Ramen Culture
The origin of Miso Curry Milk Ramen is said to trace back to the ramen shop “Aji no Sapporo,” which once existed in Furukawa, Aomori City. In the 1970s, as Sapporo ramen gained popularity, founder Mr. Onishi (who later opened “Aji no Sapporo Onishi“) reportedly created it through trial and error in response to requests from regular customers.
This combination, based on miso ramen with the added spiciness of curry powder and the creaminess of milk, started as an accidental creation but matched Aomori’s climate and food culture, gradually spreading.
- Harsh Winters and Food Culture: In Aomori’s snowy and cold winters, the flavors of miso and curry warm the body, and the addition of milk increases richness and mellowness, making it an easy-to-eat bowl.
- Affinity with Dairy Products: Aomori Prefecture also has dairy farming, so the lack of resistance to dishes using milk might have been one factor in its acceptance.
- Flavor Balance: The umami of miso, the spice of curry, and the creaminess of milk, while seemingly disparate, enhance each other’s flavors, creating a unique yet addictive taste.
Evolution and Spread: Towards Diverse Flavors
Since the appearance of the purported originator, “Aji no Sapporo Onishi,” the number of shops serving Miso Curry Milk Ramen has increased, mainly in Aomori City, with each adding its own unique twist.
- Aji no Sapporo Onishi (Aomori City): Known as the originating shop, it still attracts many fans today. It offers the original taste with a good balance of miso, curry, and milk. Butter topping is also popular.
- Aji no Sapporo Asari (Aomori City): A popular shop that inherits the “Aji no Sapporo” name along with “Onishi.” It is said to feature a relatively mild flavor.
- Kawara (Aomori City): Offers Miso Curry Milk Ramen pursuing authentic spice and richness. It also has a branch at the airport (Aomori Miso Curry Milk Ramen Kawara Aomori Airport Store) and is widely known among tourists.
- Sapporo Kan (Aomori City): Loved locally as one of the shops serving Miso Curry Milk Ramen.
While adhering to the basic combination, these shops create diversity in the world of Miso Curry Milk Ramen by varying the soup blend balance, the types of miso and curry powder used, and toppings.
In recent years, its uniqueness has led to increased media coverage, and shops offering it have appeared outside Aomori Prefecture, boosting its nationwide recognition.
Diversity of Aomori Ramen Culture
Miso Curry Milk Ramen symbolizes the diversity of Aomori’s ramen culture. While traditional niboshi (dried sardine) ramen is deeply rooted, the fact that such an inventive ramen was born and continues to be loved by citizens shows the depth of Aomori’s food culture.
How to Enjoy Miso Curry Milk Ramen
- Taste Comparison: There are multiple shops serving it in Aomori City. Comparing the original taste with the variations offered by each shop is recommended.
- Toppings: Adding butter enhances richness and flavor. Some shops may offer toppings like cheese.
- Check Before Visiting: Popular shops can be crowded. Also, business hours and holidays may change, so it’s recommended to check beforehand.
Conclusion – A Unique Aomori Taste Experience
Born from an accidental idea and nurtured by Aomori’s climate and people, Miso Curry Milk Ramen is not just a “novelty item” but one of the soul foods of Aomori residents, firmly rooted in the regional food culture.
While the combination might seem surprising at first, once you taste it, you’ll surely be captivated by the exquisite harmony woven by the richness of miso, the spiciness of curry, and the creaminess of milk. When visiting Aomori, why not experience this unique and delicious local bowl? It will surely become an unforgettable culinary memory.
