Why You'll Love This Halloween Recipe
Squid ink gives the most dramatic natural black color in food, and the flavor is pure umami richness. It's the Halloween meal that impresses adults as much as kids.
Ingredients for Spooky Black Ramen
- 4 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning or use)
- 6 cups chicken or dashi broth
- 2 tbsp squid ink
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp miso paste
- 2 soft-boiled eggs (6 1/2 minutes)
- Nori sheets cut into ghosts
- Fish cakes (narutomaki)
- Scallions, corn, and bamboo shoots
How to Make Spooky Black Ramen Step by Step
- Simmer the broth with squid ink, soy sauce, and miso for 10 minutes.
- Cook the noodles separately; drain.
- Soft-boil eggs for 6 1/2 minutes; chill in ice water and halve.
- Divide noodles among bowls; ladle over the black broth.
- Top with egg halves, nori ghosts, fish cake, scallions, corn, and bamboo.
- Serve steaming hot with chopsticks and spoons.
💡 Tips for the Best Spooky Black Ramen
Squid ink is sold in small packets at fish markets and online — a little goes a long way. Wear an apron; it stains. The eggs' bright yolks against black broth are the money shot.
Halloween Party Serving Ideas
Serve with gyoza on the side for a full ramen-shop experience.
Love this recipe?
Save it to your Halloween board so it's there when spooky season hits.
📌 Pin it for laterFrequently Asked Questions
What does squid ink taste like?
Barely anything — a mild briny richness that melts into the broth. The color is the star.
Where do I buy squid ink?
Fish markets, Italian grocers (nero di seppia), and online — small packets are inexpensive.
Will it stain?
Yes — teeth, lips, and clothes temporarily. Aprons and dark napkins recommended!
Vegetarian?
Use mushroom or kombu dashi and skip the egg topping or keep it — your call.