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Food History

The Japanese Cooking Technique That Inspired The Creation Of Instant Ramen By Amrita Ray Sept. 21, 2025 11:39 am EST

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A warm bowl of ramen with the perfect seasoning can soothe even the most tiring of days. The dish, whose modern version was accidentally created in part with the help of the U.S. Navy , has become a global favorite for anyone looking for quick comfort and taste. This instant version of the Chinese dish was inspired by the Japanese cooking technique of tempura. For those who aren't in the know, tempura is the process of frying seafood or vegetables coated in batter until crispy — a crucial step to keep the ramen fresh and shelf-stable.

But beyond this cultural exchange, there's another layer of history to the origins o

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