Saimin
A comforting Hawaiian noodle soup featuring a savory dashi broth, chewy noodles, and classic toppings like char siu pork and kamaboko. This local favorite is a true taste of the islands, perfect for any day.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Dashi Broth
- b.In a large stockpot, combine 8 cups of water and the kombu. Heat over medium heat until small bubbles form around the edges of the pot (about 10-15 minutes). Do not let it boil. Remove and discard the kombu.
- c.Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the katsuobushi (bonito flakes), boil for 1 minute, then immediately turn off the heat. Let the flakes steep for 10 minutes.
- d.Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth into a clean pot. Discard the solids.
- e.Return the broth to the stove over medium-low heat. Stir in the soy sauce, mirin, sliced ginger, and smashed garlic. Simmer gently for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Season with salt to taste. Keep the broth warm.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Toppings
- b.In a small bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Heat a teaspoon of oil in a small non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Pour in the egg to form a very thin crepe. Cook for 1-2 minutes until set, flip, and cook for 30 seconds more. Remove, roll tightly, and slice into thin ribbons (kinshi tamago).
- c.Wipe out the skillet and add the remaining oil. Heat over medium-high heat. Add the Spam slices and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- d.Ensure your char siu, kamaboko, and green onions are sliced and ready for assembly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Noodles
- b.While the toppings are cooking, bring a separate large pot of 12 cups of water with 1 tbsp of salt to a rolling boil.
- c.Add the fresh saimin noodles and cook according to package directions, usually 2-3 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- d.Drain the noodles thoroughly in a colander. Do not rinse them.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Divide the hot, drained noodles equally among four large soup bowls.
- c.Ladle the simmering dashi broth over the noodles in each bowl, ensuring they are well-covered.
- d.Artfully arrange the toppings on the noodles: place a few slices of char siu, kamaboko, two slices of crispy Spam, and a portion of the sliced egg crepe in each bowl.
- e.Garnish generously with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a crystal-clear broth, skim any foam that rises to the surface and avoid boiling the kombu, which can make the dashi bitter.
- 2Cook the noodles just before serving to maintain their perfect chewy texture. They will get soggy if left in the broth for too long.
- 3If you can't find fresh saimin noodles, fresh ramen noodles are the best substitute. In a pinch, use dried ramen (discard the seasoning packet).
- 4For a quicker version, use instant dashi powder mixed with water according to package directions, then add the soy sauce, mirin, ginger, and garlic.
- 5Get the Spam nice and crispy. The texture contrast with the soft noodles and broth is a key part of the experience.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
For a vegetarian version, make a kombu-shiitake dashi by soaking dried shiitake mushrooms with the kombu. Omit the pork and Spam, and use toppings like fried tofu, sautéed mushrooms, bok choy, and bean sprouts.
SpicySpicy
Add a teaspoon of chili oil or a dash of shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven-spice blend) to each bowl before serving for a spicy kick.
SeafoodSeafood
Add cooked shrimp, fish cake varieties, or even a few clams to the soup during the final assembly for a seafood-focused saimin.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
With toppings like char siu pork, Spam, and egg, this dish provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Comforting and Hydrating
The warm, savory dashi broth is not only comforting but also helps with hydration. The simple, soulful nature of this noodle soup can be a great mood-booster.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Saimin recipe contains approximately 650-750 calories, depending on the exact brands of Spam and char siu used. The majority of calories come from the noodles and protein toppings.