Simplified Tokushima-Style Ramen

Instructions

1. In a small pan, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Reserve 1 teaspoon of the rendered bacon fat. Set bacon aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
2. In a separate small pot, bring water to a boil and gently add the egg. Boil for 6-7 minutes for a soft-boiled egg with a jammy center. Immediately transfer to an ice bath, then peel and slice in half.
3. In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
4. Add the chicken broth, which will serve as our simplified tonkotsu base.
5. Add the reserved bacon fat and soy sauce to create the rich Tokushima-style tonkotsu soy sauce flavor.
6. Simmer the broth for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. In a separate pot, cook the ramen noodles according to package directions, then drain well.
8. Place cooked noodles in a bowl and ladle the hot broth over them.
9. Top with crispy bacon slices, bean sprouts, sliced green onions, and the halved soft-boiled egg.
10. Serve immediately while hot.