Noodle Journey Episode 88: Sapporo Ichiban Tonkotsu Ramen Bowl (US Version)

Sapporo Ichiban has become a bit of a sleeper favorite for me. While their lineup in the US is limited, what they do offer tends to be consistent, accessible, and pleasantly flavorful, which are qualities that earn them a permanent spot on my shelves (my daughter in particular is a big fan of their chicken ramen). In this review, I’m checking out their Tonkotsu Ramen, a pork bone broth variety that has a lot of competition in the instant noodle world. Given how many excellent tonkotsu options I’ve already reviewed, this one’s got some stiff standards to live up to.

This flavor is available in both pillow packs and bowl formats, with this bowl version offering some dried garnish extras at a slightly higher price. You’ll find it for about $1.99 for an individual bowl at YamiBuy, Amazon, or your local Asian market – my H Mart always seems to have this in stock but the other Asian markets I frequent have this in stock less regularly. Ingredient lists vary wildly depending on which version of this you buy, with some versions including real meat extract and others sticking with artificial flavoring only, so check the packaging if you have dietary restrictions. The bowl version I’m reviewing here has artificial meat flavoring only, but the bowl version shown on Sanyo’s website lists meat extract in both the packs and bowls, making me think that what I have here is a Japanese-manufactured export to the US. Sodium is on the high side at 2,660mg, so keep that in mind.

Noodles:
The noodles here are springy, sturdy, and slightly more satisfying than other budget brands for me. They hold up well to the broth without going mushy.
• 7/10

Spiciness:
There’s no chili heat in this bowl at all, but the heavy garlic presence might feel sharp to more sensitive palates. If garlic ever seems spicy to you, be warned.
• 0/10

Overall:
Flavor-wise, this delivers a solid budget artificial tonkotsu experience. The garlic oil is the star here, giving the broth a bold, punchy aroma and taste that I really enjoyed. It’s joined by hints of soy, onion, and even a little ginger for depth. The broth itself has an impressively creamy consistency, despite the lack of actual animal fat, and it looks great in the bowl. The wood ear mushrooms are another highlight that I don’t see very often. They’re chewy, earthy, and a welcome sight in this bowl. Putting aside the ingredient inconsistencies between product versions, it doesn’t quite compare to the more premium tonkotsu varieties like Ichiran or Marutai in this meat-free form, but it’s definitely delicious for what it is. This is a more budget-friendly option that’s easy to find and easy to enjoy. On that front, it delivers.
• 8/10