845: Homemade Ramen with Sho Spaeth
3/13/202650 min
This week, we get into the history, craft, and techniques of homemade Ramen with the brilliant author, Sho Spaeth. We talk about its origins in Japan, the introduction of ramen to the US, and the recent innovation that gave rise to what we know as instant ramen. We learn about the five elements that go into a bowl of ramen: broth, tare, fat, noodles, and toppings, and how these have been refined over the years to create endless variations, including the kind that can be enjoyed in our own homes. Sho Spaeth is the author of Homemade Ramen. He left us his recipe for Niboshi Shoyu Ramen.
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Broadcast dates for this episode:
March 13, 2026 (originally aired)
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Clips
Showing 10 of 12Transcript preview
First 90 secondsFrancis Lam· Host0:00
The Splendid Table is supported by Visit California. Play brings out the best in us. It fuels our creativity, lifts our spirits, and connects us to both ourselves and each other. And the ultimate form of play is a California vacation. It's the perfect place to savor your next unforgettable experience or your next unforgettable meal. From vineyard picnics and farmers markets to tacos by the beach, flavor is a part of every adventure. Discover endless ways to play in California, the ultimate playground. Start planning your trip to the ultimate playground at visitcalifornia.com. The Splendid Table is supported by America's Culinary Cup. If you love high-stakes, cutthroat competition, and incredible food, don't miss America's Culinary Cup on CBS. Sixteen of the most decorated chefs in the country go head-to-head for an unprecedented one million dollar prize. Hosted by Emmy-nominated food expert Padma Lakshmi, this is a high-pressure arena where every dish matters and one mistake sends you home. Don't miss a new episode of America's Culinary Cup Wednesday after Survivor on CBS and streaming on Paramount Plus. [upbeat music] I'm Francis Lam, and this is The Splendid Table from APM. [gentle music] I remember my first bowl of real ramen in Japan. It was, like, twenty-five years ago. I had an entire childhood, you know, just loving the instant noodles that came in packets and Styrofoam