Easy Ghibli Ramen – Recreate Ponyo’s Ham & Noodles at Home

What’s Up, Hungry People

When it comes to animated foods, few look more delicious than the ones that can be seen in Ghibli Studio movies. From steamed buns and bento boxes to bacon and eggs, Ghibli food is its own genre of animation.

Today, after dozens of requests to make the ramen over on TikTok, we’re diving deep into the oceanic charm of Ponyo, our favorite little fish-girl, and bringing a splash of Ghibli magic right to your kitchen.

Ponyo is a heartwarming tale from the visionary director Hayao Miyazaki and the renowned Studio Ghibli. It’s the story of a young and adventurous goldfish named Ponyo, who dreams of becoming human after forming an unlikely friendship with a five-year-old boy named Sosuke. Ponyo’s fascination with the human world is as boundless as the ocean she hails from, but her transformation sets off a series of events that unbalance the natural world.

As Ponyo embraces life on land with Sosuke, her determination and love challenge the very laws of nature, invoking a magic that alters the fabric of reality. The bond between Ponyo and Sosuke proves that love can conquer the greatest obstacles and that friendship knows no bounds, bridging the worlds of land and sea, human and magical creature. Their journey is a mesmerizing blend of whimsy, adventure, and a testament to the harmonious coexistence of man with nature, making Ponyo a captivating tale for all ages.

Here’s What You Need:

• Pork-flavored ramen noodles + flavor packet: Forms the base of the dish, providing noodles and rich, savory broth.
• Water: Used to cook the noodles and create the broth from the flavor packet.
• Thick-cut ham: Adds a hearty, savory element that complements the pork flavor of the broth.
• Soft-boiled egg: Offers a creamy texture and rich flavor, enhancing the overall dish.
• Green onions: Provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the dish, adding color and mild spice.

Let’s Cook!

First things first, let’s talk about the star of our show: the ramen. In the magical world of Ghibli, even the simplest meals are prepared with care and love, and our dish today is no exception. Begin by unleashing the savory goodness of the pork flavoring packet into your ramen – Ponyo wouldn’t have it any other way. Go ahead and give those noodles a good crush, just like our little fish-girl does when she’s in a hurry to savor the flavors of the human world.

Next, it’s time to bring the heat. Pour boiling water over your noodle mountain and seal in the steam with a lid. Patience, Hungry People! Let those noodles soak in the hot spa for at least two minutes. This is when the magic happens, and the flavors start to mingle and dance together.

Slide in your slices of ham, a perfectly soft-boiled egg, and a sprinkle of green onions. These aren’t just toppings; they’re the supporting cast that elevates our humble bowl of ramen to Ghibli greatness. Give the lid one last close, granting those final 60 seconds for the warmth to hug our toppings and for the noodles to reach that just-right tenderness.

Now, let’s not forget the cozy touch that completes this culinary picture – a steaming cup of milk and honey tea. It’s not just a bonus; it’s a warm embrace, reminiscent of waiting for a loved one to return from sea, just like Sosuke’s mother in Ponyo.

Ponyo’s Ramen Tips:

• Soft-Boiling Eggs: Achieving the perfect soft-boiled egg can be tricky. Start with cold eggs to prevent cracking and lower them gently into boiling water. The 6-minute 30-second cook time is ideal for a soft, runny yolk but adjust according to your preference. An ice bath stops the cooking process immediately, ensuring the perfect consistency.
• Seasoning the Broth: The flavor packet that comes with the ramen is usually quite potent. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste. Some packets can be very salty, so it’s okay not to use the entire packet if you prefer a milder broth.
• Noodle Texture: For best results, keep an eye on the noodles as they cook. Overcooked noodles can become mushy. If you prefer a firmer texture, slightly reduce the cooking time. Remember, the noodles will continue to cook a bit even after you remove them from the hot water, especially once the lid is placed back on.
• Toppings: The ham, egg, and green onions are more than just toppings; they’re integral to the dish. Warm the ham slices gently to keep them tender. Slice the green onions thinly for a burst of sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of the broth and egg.
• Serving: Let the ramen sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together and the broth to cool to a comfortable eating temperature. Serve with a side of milk tea to complement the rich, savory flavors of the ramen with its smooth, sweet notes.

As we lift the lid on our steaming bowls of ramen, it’s hard not to feel a little bit like Sosuke and Ponyo, discovering something magical in the everyday. With each spoonful, we’re reminded that the simplest ingredients, when brought together with a bit of care and a touch of whimsy, can transform an ordinary meal into a moment of comfort and joy.

Just like Ponyo’s enchanting journey from the sea to the shore, this dish brings together diverse elements to create a harmony of flavors that’s as heartwarming as the film itself. It’s a testament to the power of a meal shared with friends, or in this case, shared with our favorite characters from the deep blue sea. Here’s to many more meals that bring a sprinkle of Ghibli magic into our kitchens and hearts. Enjoy, Hungry People!