Thinking back on this free inquiry, I feel that I really did learn a lot about ramen! I’ve always wanted to know more about the dish, and this free inquiry project gave me the opportunity to do so.

I wanted to know what ramen noodles were made of, and now I know that they are a wheat based noodle. I also learned the history of ramen and how it was created with the goal of feeding the population. It amazed me that a couple simple steps (boiling water, adding noodles and then adding a flavour packet) creates such a delicious dish that is also affordable!

I was amazed to find an online ramen community! I had no idea that the internet was a breeding ground for cooking enthusiasts. I am delighted to see that the internet offers little cyber communities where people can interact with other people to talk about their hobbies/interests. Check out this online ramen community on reddit, here.

I got to try a bunch of different ramen brands, and to my surprise, they were all very delicious. Normally I only eat Ichiban or Buldak, and this inquiry experience got me to step out of my comfort zone and try things I normally wouldn’t.

It also got me out of the house and exploring the local food scene. Going to Ghost Ramen actually took me on a trip across the bridge in Victoria. I spend a lot of my time at school and at home, so I never really venture to downtown Victoria. The parliament building sure is beautiful all lit up at night time.

I also do recognize that ramen is an asian cuisine, and as a white person living in a white dominated country, I tried my best to be respectful of the culture. I wanted this inquiry to to come from a place of observation. I really tried to refrain from making it opinionated and adding in my “should” or “should nots.” I think of food as a form of self-expression and as an art, one that uses so many senses, and unites people together. I personally think it’s really cute that people love to eat together. It’s one of my favourite things about people. I also wanted to do this inquiry to educate others about the cuisine from an intercultural perspective, to encourage white people to step out of their comfort zones and explore all the amazing things about other cultures.

Rock on ramen and rock on diversity!


I highly encourage you to check out this very funny video of three different chefs cooking ramen; an amateur, a home cook and an expert. The final results get reviewed by a food scientist.