Enhanced Pork Belly Ramen

Ingredients

• Pork belly (1 pound)
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup)
• Mirin (2 tablespoons)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated)
• Chicken broth (6 cups)
• Ramen noodles (2 packages)
• Eggs (2, for soft-boiling)
• Corn kernels (1 cup)
• Bean sprouts (1 cup)
• Green onions (4, sliced)
• Nori sheets (2, torn into pieces)
• Chili oil (2 tablespoons)
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Place the pork belly in a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
3. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
4. Remove the pork belly from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork belly is tender and caramelized. Baste occasionally with the marinade for extra flavor.
5. While the pork belly is baking, prepare the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to develop the flavors. For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding some dried shiitake mushrooms or a piece of kombu while simmering.
7. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and gently add the eggs. Cook for 6-7 minutes for a soft-boiled consistency. Remove from heat, cool in ice water, and peel carefully.
8. Once the pork belly is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin pieces.
9. To assemble the ramen bowls, divide the cooked noodles between two bowls. Pour the hot broth over the noodles.
10. Top each bowl with sliced pork belly, soft-boiled eggs, sliced green onions, bean sprouts, corn kernels, and torn nori sheets.
11. Drizzle with sesame oil and chili oil for an extra kick of flavor.
12. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade bowl of comfort!