What Is Abura Soba? - Japanese Ramen Lover Explains
Abura soba, also known as "oil noodles," is a type of ramen that is enjoyed without a soup. Instead, the noodles are tossed in a flavorful sauce and oil, offering a rich, savory experience.
Unlike traditional ramen, abura soba's flavor comes primarily from the seasoning, toppings, and the quality of the noodles themselves.
In this article, we will dive into the history, characteristics, and some popular abura soba restaurants.
What you will learn:
- Origin of abura soba
- The taste of abura soba
- Recommended stores for abura soba etc
What Is Abura Soba?
Abura soba, a dish that traces its origins to post-war Japan, particularly in the Tokyo area, offers a unique take on ramen. The exact history is somewhat unclear, but it is believed that abura soba was developed in the 1950s as a way to enjoy ramen without the broth, which was more expensive to make during that time.
The noodles in abura soba are typically thick and chewy, and the dish is often topped with ingredients such as sliced pork, green onions, bamboo shoots, and a poached egg. The key to its flavor lies in the combination of soy sauce-based tare, sesame oil, and sometimes vinegar or chili oil.
What is the Difference Between Each Abura Soba?
Abura soba can be found in various styles depending on the region or the restaurant. Here are some common variations:
- Spicy Abura Soba
- Shoyu Abura Soba
- Garlic Abura Soba
Spicy Abura Soba
This variation adds a kick to the traditional abura soba with the use of chili oil or spicy miso paste. It’s popular among those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
Shoyu Abura Soba
Shoyu abura soba is seasoned primarily with soy sauce, giving it a rich umami flavor. It’s one of the most common types of abura soba and can be found in many restaurants across Japan.
Garlic Abura Soba
For garlic lovers, this version includes plenty of garlic, either minced or as a garlic oil, which intensifies the flavor of the dish.
What Is the Taste of Abura Soba Like?
Abura soba is known for its rich and savory taste, largely due to the combination of tare and oil. The noodles are often thick and chewy, absorbing the flavors of the sauce well.
The absence of broth allows the flavors of the ingredients and seasonings to stand out more prominently, making each bite a burst of umami. Depending on the toppings and the specific tare used, the flavor profile can range from sweet and savory to spicy and tangy.
What Is the Noodle Used?
The noodles used in abura soba are typically thicker and chewier than those used in soup-based ramen. This is because the noodles need to hold up well when mixed with the thick sauce and oil.
However, some variations might use thinner noodles depending on the regional style or the restaurant’s preference.
Recommended Toppings
Here are three toppings that you will often see in abura soba:
- Poached Egg
The creamy yolk of the poached egg blends perfectly with the rich sauce, adding a luxurious texture to the dish.
- Chashu (Braised Pork)
Chashu is a common topping, providing a tender and flavorful bite that complements the noodles.
- Nori (Seaweed)
Nori adds a subtle umami flavor and a bit of texture, balancing the richness of the dish.
Recommended Abura Soba Stores
Here are some popular abura soba restaurants that you might want to try:
- Abura Soba Tokyo Abura Gumi
- Musashiya
- Menya Shichisai
Abura Soba Tokyo Abura Gumi
Abura Soba Tokyo Abura Gumi is one of the most famous abura soba spots in Tokyo. The restaurant is known for its rich and flavorful sauce, made with a secret recipe that includes a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and other ingredients.
The noodles are perfectly chewy, and the dish is topped with a variety of fresh ingredients.
วันนี้มีคนเจออึนอูที่ญี่ปุ่น ไปกินโซบะที่เคยแนะนำไว้ในคอนเทนต์ด้วย น่าจะเป็นร้านนี้ 😋
— 🌸빕비빅.cs🍑💙🐰🐶🐰🐣 (@wecsb95) May 10, 2024
Tokyo Aburagumi Sohonten Ginza
📍 https://t.co/WgZI1Y2kp9#ตามมาดูนูนู https://t.co/JQwaK52URt pic.twitter.com/XtRiojeFvS
Musashiya
Musashiya is another popular spot for abura soba in Tokyo. The restaurant is known for its robust flavors, with a sauce that includes a hint of garlic and vinegar, giving it a slightly tangy kick.
It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its consistency and quality.
武蔵家 武蔵境店
— とまそん＠ラーメン食べて詠います (@ramentabete) April 6, 2024
油そば チャーシュー 生玉子
家系なのに
汁なし系
意外とここでしか食えないんじゃ？#家系ラーメン#油そば#汁なし系#旨し#武蔵家#武蔵境 pic.twitter.com/XN2aSaGKET
Menya Shichisai
Menya Shichisai offers a more refined take on abura soba, with carefully selected ingredients and a delicate balance of flavors. The noodles are handmade, and the sauce is a harmonious blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of dashi.
This place is perfect for those looking to experience a more traditional and artisanal approach to abura soba.
麺や七彩@八丁堀
— 麺の匠☻ (@TKM_ramen) September 3, 2024
限定／油そば（煮干味）
麺大盛り#七彩#麺や七彩 pic.twitter.com/popoEpHwqH
Let’s cook and eat Abura Soba
If you want to enjoy authentic abura soba at home, you can check out some of the products available online. Many stores offer ready-made abura soba kits that include everything you need to recreate this delicious dish.
