Tare

This component operates discreetly behind the scenes in a ramen dish but nevertheless amplifies the broth. Tare serves as a pivotal flavor enhancer for the broth, introducing umami, salinity, and a delightful depth. It remains the secret weapon of many chefs, its specific ingredients often guarded closely. Some common tare ingredients include soy sauce, saké, seaweed, dried fish, miso, and salt. Tares are often named based on their primary flavor; for instance, a salt-based tare is called shio tare (shio means “salt”) while a soy-based one is termed shoyu tare (shoyu means “soy”).