Step 1: Prepare the Miso Ramen Broth

Begin by heating sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add garlic and ginger, sautéing them until fragrant. Next, stir in the miso paste, soy sauce, and sake or mirin, if using. Allow this mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavors. Afterward, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to dissolve the miso paste completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. At this point, add shiitake mushrooms and julienned carrots, letting the broth simmer for 15-20 minutes to infuse the flavors. Toward the end of cooking, incorporate the bok choy or spinach, cooking it just until tender.

Step 2: Cook the Ramen Noodles

While the broth is simmering, prepare the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside until ready to assemble the dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Katsu

To make the chicken katsu, start by butterflying the chicken breasts. Gently pound them with a mallet until they are of even thickness. After seasoning them with salt and pepper, set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, another for beaten eggs, and the third for panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, dip it into the eggs, and coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat, ensuring the oil is hot enough to fry evenly. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Finally, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate and slice it into strips.

Step 4: Assemble the Ramen

Begin assembling the ramen by dividing the cooked noodles between two serving bowls. Carefully ladle the hot miso broth over the noodles, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed. Lay the sliced chicken katsu on top of the noodles, arranging it attractively. Add a halved soft-boiled egg to each bowl, followed by strips of nori.

Step 5: Add Garnishes

Finally, sprinkle the ramen with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. For an extra kick, drizzle chili oil or add a pinch of chili flakes. Serve immediately while hot for the best experience.