IPPIN Tonkotsu Ramen
IPPIN Tonkotsu Ramen
Acecook's IPPIN is one of our favourite underrated finds — a springy noodle that perfectly complements a creamy, authentic tonkotsu pork broth inspired by Japan's best ramen restaurants. No frills, no gimmicks, just a beautifully executed bowl of pork bone ramen that punches well above its weight. A quiet gem from Japan.
- Open and prep
Peel the lid back halfway and take out any sachets sitting inside. Add the seasoning powder into the bowl as directed on the packet. Having everything unpacked and laid out before you pour makes the whole process smoother and quicker.
- Add boiling water
Pour freshly boiled water into the bowl up to the inner line, which is about the indicated fill line. Make sure the water covers all the noodles evenly so they cook through properly. Give it a moment to settle before closing the lid.
- Let it steep
Pop the lid back on and wait for 3 minutes. This is when the noodles soften and the broth develops its full depth of flavour. Resist the urge to peek, the trapped steam does important work making everything come together inside the bowl.
- Stir and serve
Remove the lid and give the bowl a really thorough stir from the bottom up, making sure all the seasoning is mixed through and nothing is stuck to the base. Serve it while it's piping hot and finish with your favourite toppings.
Background
Every packet has a story behind it. Here's where this one comes from, what makes it tick, and why it made the cut for the box.
Acecook started in Osaka in 1954 and has since expanded across Asia, with major operations in Vietnam. They are known for bridging Japanese quality standards with Southeast Asian flavours, producing everything from premium Japanese cups to Vietnamese pho.
Fukuoka is the undisputed ramen capital of Japan. The city's yatai (street food stalls) along the Naka River serve tonkotsu ramen late into the night, and the local ramen culture is so strong that it draws food tourists from across the world.
A rich, creamy tonkotsu broth made from simmered pork bones. The long cooking process extracts collagen from the bones, turning the broth milky white and giving it a velvety texture. It is the kind of broth that feels substantial enough to be a meal on its own.
The noodles in this bowl are crafted to complement the broth style perfectly. The texture, thickness, and cooking time are all calibrated so that the noodles and soup work together as a complete experience rather than separate elements sharing the same bowl.
Tonkotsu broth is made by boiling pork bones for 12 to 20 hours until they break down into a creamy, milky white soup. The technique originated in Kurume, Fukuoka, in 1937 when a cook accidentally left the bones boiling too long and discovered the result was delicious.
A beautifully executed tonkotsu that proves you do not need a restaurant to get a great bowl of pork bone ramen. The broth is rich without being heavy, and the noodles are perfectly matched. It is the kind of quiet excellence that makes this one a repeat favourite.
Topping Suggestions
A few toppings that take this bowl from good to great. Most are already in your kitchen, and every one is optional.
Green Beans
Green beans add a crisp, slightly sweet crunch to instant noodles, providing a fresh and light contrast to the savory noodle base.
Boiled Egg
A soft-boiled egg brings a creamy richness that complements the noodles perfectly, providing a luscious, slightly savory contrast.
Chilli Oil
Chilli oil delivers a fiery kick and a deep, smoky heat, adding a spicy dimension that can transform the noodles into a sizzling delight.