TOMASSOON
<March 2023> Charred Garlic Ramen with Spinach Extra (Medium Size)
Originally, I don't have much experience with "Iekei" style ramen, but being a ramen enthusiast, I have visited quite a few famous shops (probably too many: sweat). However, I was really hooked on this one bowl, which is Tsubasa-ya's "Charred Garlic" ramen. In February, I was too busy to get it again, but feeling regretful, I checked the official Twitter of the shop and found out they extended the offering to March! Well, I had to go then! So, in a forward-leaning burst, I visited the shop.
<Overall> The rich aroma of the thick lard oil seeping into the steam! The powerful presence mixed with the sticky tonkotsu shoyu broth! The intense Iekei-style essence enveloped in a deep black charred garlic! The wild appearance originally, with a touch of Iekei discipline. The balance between the meat, spinach, and seaweed is always spot on. Especially this time with extra spinach, the contrast between the black and green on the noodles is dazzling. Hehe... But still, the charred garlic clinging to the inside of the bowl is enticing! The savory aroma of the charred garlic rises with the steam, tickling the nostrils. Of course, the brightness of the chicken oil typical of Iekei, and the richness of the tonkotsu broth seeping through. In my mind, it's already a masterpiece of Iekei ramen.
<Soup> The deliciousness resonates from the first sip! The perfect match between Iekei tonkotsu shoyu and lard oil! The powerfulness of the charred garlic meets the richness of the tonkotsu and chicken extracts! Even though I know it, I still feel the deliciousness from the first sip of the soup! The harmony between the charred garlic and Iekei tonkotsu shoyu is exquisite! The essence of the tonkotsu is felt in the broth, along with the chicken extract. Furthermore, the soy sauce seasoning comes together! The slight collagen-like feeling sticking around the mouth, with a faint drip on the lips, is delightful. This is the usual flavor. But the charred garlic's savory aroma and sharp garlic punch are truly exhilarating! Charred garlic... the so-called "lard oil" confronts the rich tonkotsu shoyu. It's natural that garlic goes well with animal extracts, but the smoky aroma of the charred garlic blends perfectly with the soy sauce flavor and saltiness. Ah, it's a shame that it's limited-time. I even daydream about making it a regular menu item for an additional fee.
<Noodles> Soaked in the flavor of the charred garlic, absorbing the umami! Strong and thick noodle strands with a wild yet natural appearance! Today, I ordered a medium size, of course, with firmness specified. The fact that you can get a large size for the same price is appealing. The natural demeanor of the medium-thick noodles, with a slight yellowish hue, is complemented by the blackness of the charred garlic clinging to them. And thanks to the usual effect of chicken oil, they shine brightly. Despite being firm, there's a natural demeanor to them, trying to make you feel the firmness throughout the noodles. The slightly mild firmness, due to the medium hydration, also has a nice touch. The feeling of biting and tearing easily with the front teeth, while the back teeth sense a firm, slightly chewy sensation, is great.
<Seaweed> Adds to the deliciousness! Even when soaked in the broth, the flavor is high! Thick seaweed typical of Iekei! Hehe... seaweed is delicious when added! I've been adding green onions, then spinach... maybe next time, I'll add more seaweed? The deliciousness of seaweed is indispensable in Iekei ramen. The thickness and light dressing of the seaweed are really nice. The flavor is great too! Once again, without learning my lesson, I wrap the noodles around it and devour it over and over and over and over...