Menma
Menma is a savory, fermented bamboo shoot topping commonly found in Japanese ramen, particularly in tonkotsu and shoyu varieties. It's made by seasoning dried, fermented bamboo shoots with soy sauce, mirin, and other umami-rich ingredients, giving it a distinct salty and slightly sweet flavor. This topping adds a satisfying crunch and depth to the bowl, originating from traditional Japanese ramen shops.
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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Menma is low in calories, with a typical serving containing around 10-20 calories, and is primarily a source of dietary fiber and minerals like potassium. It is not high in carbs, fat, or protein, making it a light yet flavorful addition that enhances the overall nutritional balance of ramen without adding significant energy density.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 25 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbs | 4.5 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
| Potassium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Manganese | 0.4 mg |
| Copper | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.05 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.8 mg |
| Phosphorus | 35 mg |
| Magnesium | 10 mg |
Per 1/4 cup (56 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, menma is a staple in ramen that reflects Japan's appreciation for fermented foods and textural contrast in dishes, often symbolizing the harmony of flavors in a bowl. Nutritionally, its fermentation process can increase bioavailability of certain nutrients, and it's valued for being a plant-based topping that adds umami without animal products.
AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms