I’ve been dreaming of this bowl of vegan ramen since I ate it. I had a day at home where I could let the broth simmer on the stove for hours and hours, and it really paid off. I improvised, as usual, and used what I had at hand. Onions, garlic, ginger, mushrooms, carrots, lots of miso, brown sugar, soy sauce and water. I stirred once in a while and added more water, and when it was time to eat I added sesame seed oil, lime juice and a little more soy. The broth was so rich and packed with umami, and absolutely delicious.

I prepped bowls with noodles, baby corn, green soy beans, fried tofu, steamed broccoli, bean sprouts, thinly sliced carrot and fresh mint leaves. Then I poured the hot broth over the vegetables at the table and sprinkled with black sesame seeds. Best meal in a long time!