Hawaiian Saimin
Saimin is Hawaii's beloved noodle soup, a comforting and versatile dish that reflects the islands' multicultural heritage. Its light, flavorful broth, springy noodles, and customizable toppings make it a quintessential local comfort food, enjoyed at any time of day.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 pound Saimin or ramen noodles
- 16 cups Water(for boiling noodles)
- 1 tablespoon Salt(for boiling noodles)
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger(grated)
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce(or 1 Shoyu ramen soup packet)
- 2 Dried shiitake mushrooms(optional, for broth)
- 0.25 cup Dried shrimp(optional, for broth)
- 0.25 cup Bonito flakes(optional, for broth)
- 8 oz Kamaboko (fish cake)(sliced)
- 2 stalks Scallions(chopped)
- 4 oz Spam(sliced, cooked (optional topping))
- 4 oz Ham(thinly sliced (optional topping))
- 2 Eggs(hard-boiled and halved, or scrambled (optional topping))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the broth: In a large pot, combine chicken broth, grated ginger, soy sauce, and optional dried shiitake mushrooms, dried shrimp, and bonito flakes. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Strain the broth if desired, removing solids.
💡 Tip: Simmering the broth longer will deepen its flavor. If using dried ingredients, rehydrate them first if instructions suggest. - 2
Cook the noodles: Bring a separate large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the saimin or ramen noodles and cook according to package directions, usually 2-4 minutes, until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse briefly under warm running water to remove excess starch.
💡 Tip: Do not overcook the noodles, as they will continue to cook slightly in the hot broth. - 3
Prepare toppings: While the broth simmers and noodles cook, prepare your desired toppings. Slice the kamaboko, chop the scallions, cook and slice Spam or ham, and prepare hard-boiled or scrambled eggs.
- 4
Assemble the Saimin: Divide the cooked noodles among four large soup bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles.
- 5
Arrange the toppings over the noodles and broth. Serve immediately.
💡 Tip: Encourage slurping! Saimin is meant to be enjoyed noisily, with chopsticks and a Chinese soup spoon.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The broth is the heart of Saimin; don't be afraid to experiment with different aromatics and umami boosters.
- ✓Saimin noodles are typically thin and springy; if you can't find them, ramen noodles are a good substitute.
- ✓This dish is very forgiving and adaptable to whatever toppings you have on hand.
- ✓Saimin is considered a comfort food and is often eaten late at night or as a quick meal.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Cold Saimin Salad: Serve the noodles chilled with a lighter dressing and toppings.
- Spicy Saimin: Add a dash of sriracha or chili oil to the broth.
- Vegetarian Saimin: Use vegetable broth and omit meat toppings, focusing on vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, and tofu.