Simplified Toyama-Style Ramen

Instructions

1. In a small pan, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Set aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
2. Prepare the rice: Rinse rice in cold water until water runs clear. Combine rinsed rice with 1 cup water in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
3. While the rice cooks, prepare the ramen broth: In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
4. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, and a pinch of sugar to create a savory soy-based broth, typical of Toyama-style ramen.
5. In a separate pot, cook the ramen noodles according to package directions, then drain well.
6. Place cooked noodles in a bowl and ladle the hot broth over them.
7. Top with crispy bacon slices (as a substitute for roast pork) and chopped scallions.
8. Serve immediately with the cooked rice in a separate small bowl on the side, as is traditional in Toyama prefecture.