Is Ramen Healthy? The Surprising Benefits of Miso Broth

Ramen has a special kind of comfort — the warmth of the broth, the chew of the noodles, and that deep savoury flavour that feels like a reset at the end of a long day. But when you think of ramen, you might picture a rich, salty bowl or the instant packets that helped you through uni nights.

So is ramen healthy? The answer depends on how it’s made. Traditional ramen can be heavy and high in sodium, but a miso-based ramen can actually be a balanced, nourishing meal that supports gut health and delivers plant-based protein.

At Pam Pam, our Miso Ramen Noodle takes this Japanese favourite and gives it a wholesome twist — a flavourful miso broth with noodles, tofu, and vegetables that leaves you feeling warm and satisfied, not weighed down.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes ramen so loved around the world, and why miso broth might just be the secret to making it a healthier choice.

What Makes Ramen So Popular?

Ramen originated in Japan but has become one of the world’s most iconic comfort foods. Its beauty lies in the balance — noodles, broth, and toppings working together to create depth and satisfaction in every bite.

There are four main ramen styles:

• Shoyu: A soy sauce-based broth that’s light and savoury.

• Shio: A clear, salty broth often made with chicken or seafood.

• Tonkotsu: A creamy, rich broth made by boiling pork bones for hours.

• Miso: A thicker broth made from fermented soybeans, offering a deep, earthy umami flavour.

Miso ramen has a special place in modern food culture because it can easily be adapted into a plant-based, nutrient-rich version without losing its depth or authenticity.

The Power of Miso Broth

Miso is a fermented paste made from soybeans, rice, or barley, and it’s a core ingredient in Japanese cuisine. When used as the base for ramen, it transforms the broth into something both nourishing and complex.

Here’s why miso makes ramen better — not just for flavour, but for your wellbeing.

1. Supports Gut Health

Miso is naturally fermented, which means it contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut microbiome. These beneficial bacteria help improve digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and support immune health.

If you’ve ever had miso soup and felt instantly settled afterwards, it’s not your imagination — your gut actually benefits from it.

2. A Natural Source of Plant Protein

Miso is made from soybeans, which are high in plant-based protein. Combined with tofu or tempeh, a miso ramen bowl offers enough protein to keep you full and energised without feeling heavy.

3. Full of Essential Minerals

Miso is rich in vitamins B, E, and K, as well as minerals like zinc and manganese that help support metabolism, brain function, and immune strength.

4. Balanced Flavour, Balanced Nutrition

Unlike heavy pork-based broths, miso ramen is light yet rich, with natural umami that satisfies cravings without the excess fat. The saltiness of miso is offset by its earthy depth, meaning you get flavour without needing to over-season.

Is Ramen Healthy? Here’s What to Look For

Whether ramen is healthy comes down to what’s in the bowl. Many instant versions are loaded with sodium and additives, but fresh, thoughtfully prepared ramen like Pam Pam’s can be a well-rounded meal.

A healthy ramen bowl includes:

• A nourishing broth: Like miso, which provides probiotics and plant-based protein.

• Carbohydrates for energy: Wheat or rice noodles that are light and easy to digest.

• Plant-based protein: Tofu or tempeh to keep you feeling satisfied.

• Vegetables for fibre and nutrients: Think garlic, onion, spring onion, or greens.

Pam Pam’s Miso Ramen is designed to deliver that balance — flavourful, nutritious, and comforting all at once.

The Nutrition in Pam Pam’s Miso Ramen

Our Miso Ramen Noodle captures everything people love about ramen while keeping it lighter and cleaner. Each bowl is crafted with simple, real ingredients that nourish and comfort at the same time.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

• Miso broth: The star ingredient, rich in probiotics and deep umami flavour.

• Wheat noodles: Soft and chewy, providing steady energy without heaviness.

• Tofu: A complete plant protein for balance and satiety.

• Vegetables: Garlic, onion, and greens for vitamins and antioxidants.

• No artificial flavours or preservatives.

Together, these ingredients create a meal that feels indulgent but still fits within a balanced, plant-based lifestyle.

The Health Benefits of Miso Ramen

1. It Supports Digestive Health

Fermented foods like miso are known to improve gut bacteria diversity. When your digestion is happy, your whole body benefits — from energy levels to mood.

2. It Boosts Immunity Naturally

The combination of miso, garlic, and ginger in the broth delivers natural anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. It’s comfort food that helps you feel stronger from within.

3. It Provides Steady Energy

Carbohydrates from noodles, paired with protein from tofu and miso, help stabilise blood sugar and provide lasting energy throughout the day.

4. It’s Plant-Based and Cholesterol-Free

No animal fats, no dairy, and no cholesterol — just whole, plant-based ingredients.

Miso vs Other Ramen Broths

If you’ve ever compared ramen styles, you’ll know that broth makes all the difference.

Miso broth not only brings flavour but also nutrition — a balance that makes it stand out as the most health-forward of all ramen bases.

How to Enjoy Miso Ramen at Home

Ramen is meant to be a moment of comfort. Here’s how to make it even better:

• Add vegetables: Toss in bok choy, mushrooms, or edamame for colour and fibre.

• Boost the flavour naturally: A small drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of chilli adds depth.

• Slow down: Ramen is best enjoyed warm and unhurried — the way it’s meant to be.

• Pair it smartly: It’s a full meal on its own, but pairs beautifully with a light side salad or steamed greens.

👉 Try it now: Pam Pam Miso Ramen Noodle