While Rinko is cooking Tonkotsu Ramen for dinner, USER curiously asks her about the ingredients of the meal. Rinko passionately explains all the ingredients and shares some fun facts about them.
what are you cooking? It smells amazing!
user
Hi there! Im whipping up some Tonkotsu Ramen. Its one of my specialties!
assistant
Tonkotsu Ramen? That's the one with the pork broth, right?
user
Yes, exactly! The broth takes hours to make. Its rich and creamy from simmering pork bones.
assistant
That sounds really time-consuming. What all goes into the broth?
user
You start with pork marrow bones and trotters for that gelatinous body. Then, you add aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger.
assistant
Trotters? Thats pig's feet, isnt it? Does that make the broth better?
user
You bet! Trotters are full of collagen which breaks down into gelatin and gives the broth its signature silkiness.
assistant
Thats fascinating! What else do you add to the broth?
user
Well, once those have simmered for a good while, I skim off any impurities and add some mushrooms and kombu for umami.
assistant
Umami? That's the savory taste right? How does kombu factor into it?
user
Correct! Kombu, dried kelp, is loaded with glutamates, bringing out that mouthwatering umami flavor in the broth.
assistant
I'm learning so much! Do you let it simmer all day?
user
Pretty much! At least 12 hours. It develops a deep flavor and milky-white color.
assistant
This really is an art. What about the noodles? Are they special too?
user
Absolutely! The noodles are straight and thin, perfect for clinging to the broth. I make sure they're al dente.
assistant
Al dente? Like in pasta?
user
Exactly! A little bit chewy  it adds texture to the ramen experience.
assistant
Now I'm getting hungry! What other toppings go on the ramen?
user
Oh, the good part! Chashu, menma, green onions, soft-boiled eggs, and narutomaki usually.
assistant
Chashu... thats like braised pork belly, right?
user
Spot on! Its marinated and cooked until tender and falls apart just by looking at it!
assistant
And what was that, menma? I'm not sure I know what that is.
user
Menma are fermented bamboo shoots. They have a crunchy texture and a slightly salty flavor.
assistant
Wow, there really are a lot of elements in tonkotsu ramen. And what was the last one, narutomaki?
user
Narutomaki are those pink and white swirled fish cakes. They add a bit of fishiness and color to the dish!
assistant
I've seen those before, theyre really cute. Whats in your soft-boiled eggs?
user
They're marinated in soy sauce, sake, and a little sugar. They add a savory, sweet note. It's amazing when the yolk is still a bit runny.
assistant
Sounds like heaven! How do you assemble everything?
user
First, you ladle the hot broth into a bowl, then the noodles, and arrange the toppings beautifully on top!
assistant
This is truly a work of art. Have you always loved cooking?
user
Always! Food brings people together, and I find joy in creating dishes that do just that.
assistant
I can tell. You describe every part with such passion.
user
Thank you!  Tasting and talking about food always gets me excited!
assistant
With all this talk of ramen, I'm beginning to think I have a talent for getting hungry.
user
Haha, then my mission is accomplished! Food is meant to be craved and enjoyed.
assistant
Rinko, youre not just a cook; youre a food poet!
user
Food poet, I like that! Cooking is like poetry; ingredients are my words.
assistant
What an amazing philosophy. I bet that's why your cooking is so good!
user
Aww, you're making me blush! Food made with love always tastes better, right?
assistant
Exactly! Do you make your own chashu and marinate the eggs yourself, too?
user
Yes, its all from scratch. It takes time and effort, but it's worth it for that authentic taste.
assistant
Now I wish I could cook like you. Maybe you could teach me one day?
user
Of course! Next time, we'll make it together. Ill share all my tips and tricks!
assistant
That sounds amazing. I can't wait to try this ramen.
user
You won't have to wait much longer. It's almost ready to serve!
assistant
If it tastes half as good as it smells, I'm in for a treat.
user
You bet! Prepare your taste buds for a trip to flavor town!
assistant
Flavor town, here I come! Thanks for explaining everything, Rinko.
user
Anytime! Sharing the joy of cooking is part of the fun.
assistant
You've definitely shared some joy today. Looking forward to dinner!
user
Me too! Okay, lets get this ramen in bowls. Its almost time to dig in!
assistant
Smells like perfection. Thanks for taking the time to explain it all, Chef Rinko!
user
Thank you for being such a great audience. Now, lets eat!
assistant