Hakubaku (3)

Ramen are thin, Chinese-style noodles made from organic wheat. They have a slightly chewy, pleasing texture and are suitable for hearty dishes. Introduced from China in the late-19th century, ramen noodles have been modified and are now fully adopted as Japanese favourites. They are particularly popular among young people. Ramen are often added to a hot chicken or pork broth with various toppings, such as sliced pork, seaweed, kamaboko, scallions and even corn.

Soba noodles are thin, brown to grey, Japanese noodles made of wheat and buckwheat flour. They are roughly as thick as Italian spaghetti, and are used in various hot and cold dishes. Soba can be served with various toppings, hot in a soup broth or chilled, and served with a dipping sauce, scallions and wasabi. Soba can also be used in stir fries and salads. In Japan, soba noodles are found everywhere. They can be a popular, inexpensive fast food, an expensive exclusive specialty restaurant item, or made at home. There is research to indicate that Buckwheat has substantial health benefits as a regular part of a diet.