Hiyashi Chūka - Japanese Cold Ramen with Sesame Dressing
A Japanese summer must-have, this Hiyashi Chūka, Japanese cold ramen is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Chewy noodles are tossed in a nutty sesame-soy dressing and topped with thin egg strips, ham, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Finished with microgreens and a touch of sesame oil, it's the perfect cooling meal for hot days! Ready in under 30 minutes.
8/6/20251 min read
Ingredients:
10.5 oz ramen noodles (approx. 300g)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
½ tablespoon olive oil
½ tablespoon sesame oil
½ tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1.75 oz egg whites (about 3 large egg whites)
1.75 oz egg yolks (about 3–4 large egg yolks)
3 oz ham (approx. 3 slices)
4 cherry tomatoes, halved
¾ oz microgreens (about a handful)
1 cucumber, julienned
Instructions:
Make the Dressing: In a blender, combine olive oil, sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. Blend until smooth and emulsified. Set aside.
Prepare the Egg Sheets: Separate egg whites and yolks. Whisk each separately until smooth (or blend briefly). Lightly oil a nonstick pan and cook each into thin sheets over medium heat. Let them cool, then slice into fine strips. Reserve a few long strips for garnish.
Slice the Toppings: Julienne the ham and cucumber into very thin strips. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Keep the microgreens chilled until ready to serve.
Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook ramen noodles for about 3 minutes (or follow package instructions). Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water, gently rubbing to remove starch and chill the noodles.
Assemble the Dish: Toss the cold noodles with the prepared dressing until evenly coated.
Plate and Garnish: Mound the noodles on a plate. Neatly top with sliced egg, ham, cucumber, and tomatoes. Garnish with reserved egg ribbons and chilled microgreens.
Final Touch: Drizzle a bit of sesame or olive oil on top for shine and aroma.
Tips:
Use high-quality ham or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Keep all ingredients cold for maximum refreshment.
Add shredded nori or pickled ginger for an extra Japanese twist.
Why You'll Love This Cold Ramen:
Balanced sweet, savory, and tangy flavors
A colorful and nutritious summer meal
Great for meal prep or a picnic dish
