Bacon and Egg Breakfast Ramen

My Unexpected Ramen Obsession: A Breakfast Twist

I’ve always considered myself a creature of habit. My mornings are typically a whirlwind of getting the kids ready for school, rushing to work, and grabbing whatever quick breakfast I can find. But lately, I’ve been on a mission to spice things up, both literally and figuratively. And that’s how I stumbled upon the most delightful, unexpected breakfast: bacon and egg ramen.

It all started innocently enough. I was browsing through some online recipe blogs (don't judge, we all do it!), when a picture of this rich, savory ramen bowl caught my eye. The vibrant colors, the perfectly poached egg, the glistening pork belly… it was a feast for the eyes, and boy, did it live up to the hype. I’m a busy working mom, juggling a career, family, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life. Time is a luxury I don’t have much of, so I appreciate recipes that are both delicious and easy. This one fit the bill perfectly.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust it to your own preferences. Don’t like pork belly? Swap it out for crispy bacon, like I did. Want a spicier kick? Add more chili flakes. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and garnishes to create your perfect breakfast bowl. My kids, who usually turn their noses up at anything remotely healthy, absolutely devoured this ramen. I think it’s the combination of savory and salty flavors that really gets them. And let’s be honest, who can resist a perfectly runny yolk?

What I love most about this ramen is that it's so much more than just a quick breakfast. It's a comforting, satisfying meal that sets the tone for a productive day. It's a little bit of self-care, a moment to savor something delicious before the chaos of the day begins. I often find myself looking forward to this breakfast, anticipating the warmth of the broth and the satisfying chew of the noodles. It's a simple pleasure, yet it brings me so much joy.

This recipe has quickly become a staple in our household, a welcome change from the usual rushed mornings. It’s proof that even the busiest among us can find time to enjoy a delicious and nourishing meal. So, if you're looking for a breakfast that’s both satisfying and easy to make, I highly recommend giving this bacon and egg ramen a try. You won’t regret it.

Beyond the Bowl: Ramen as a Life Metaphor

Thinking about it now, this ramen is more than just a delicious meal; it's a bit of a life metaphor for me. The noodles, representing the foundation of our lives, the busy, sometimes chaotic everyday routine. The rich broth, the flavorful base that nourishes and sustains us. The toppings – the bacon, the egg, the seaweed – represent the little things, the unexpected joys and additions that make life richer and more flavorful. It’s about building upon that solid base, adding your own unique elements, and creating something truly special. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of the daily grind, there's always room for a little bit of deliciousness, a little bit of joy, and a whole lot of self-care.

This recipe isn't just about the perfect blend of ingredients; it's about creating a moment of peace and satisfaction in the midst of a busy life. It's about making something beautiful and nourishing, just like I strive to do in my own life. So the next time you find yourself overwhelmed, remember the simplicity and satisfaction of a perfectly crafted bowl of ramen – it's a powerful reminder that even small moments can be deeply enriching.

And who knows, maybe this breakfast will become your new morning ritual too. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Heat up 1 tablespoon of oil in a small pan over medium-low heat.
• Add the garlic and chili flakes and cook, stirring, until the mixture heats up and sizzles, about 1-2 minutes. Do not burn – since this is a small amount, keep the heat low. You want the garlic mellow and the chili flakes to just release their spice.
• Remove from the pan and set aside to cool.
• Mix together the soy dressing in a small bowl. Set aside.
• Cook the noodles according to the package and drain well.
• Toss with the soy dressing, to taste.
• Place the noodles in a shallow bowl and top with pork belly and a poached egg.
• Garnish with seaweed strips, green onions, katsuobushi, and toasted black sesame seeds.
• Serve with a generous amount of chili oil. Mix and enjoy!
• Mix together the soy sauce, mirin and sugar until sugar is dissolved.
• Add the mix to a vacuum bag with the pork belly.
• Fill a large heat-proof container with water and set your sous vide machine to 160°F.
• Sous vide for minimum 6 hours.
• Chill, in the bag, overnight for ease of handling.
• The next day, remove the pork from the bag.
• Gently wipe off any excess moisture.
• Sear the top of the pork in a non-stick pan over low heat until deeply browned – you probably won’t need any oil, but if you want to speed up the process feel free to add a touch of oil.
• Remove from heat and cut into 1/4 in slices.
• Sear the slices in the non-stick pan until golden, 2-3 minutes per side.