When craving something warm and comforting, many turn to saimin. The satisfying soup consists of various ingredients, including a clear broth and a helping of wheat noodles. As a unique finishing touch, you can select from toppings that lend the dish character and flavor. Here are some options to consider the next time you order a bowl at your favorite local restaurant.

What to Put on Your Saimin

1. Green Onions

Few toppings are as beloved as green onions. The sight of these garnishes indicates you’re consuming a bowl of genuine saimin, providing the soup with its traditional flavor. They also lend the dish its contrasting texture and deliver a welcome crunch. When consuming a bowl of saimin with green onions at a restaurant, you’ll experience a truly satisfying medley of noodles.

2. Kamaboko

Another customary inclusion in traditional bowls of saimin is kamaboko, which has an eye-catching shade of pink. The fish cake features contrasting white swirls that lend the saimin an unexpectedly festive appearance. 

However, the kamaboko’s appealing colors aren’t the only reason this topping is so special. The fish is mild and slightly sweet, lending the saimin an unexpected note that allows the noodles’ flavors to stand out.

3. Soy Sauce

A dash of soy sauce can add even more flavor to a bowl of saimin. Not only does the intensely savory taste complement the sweetness of the kamaboko, but it also adds a salty kick to the noodles. 

You can add this topping directly on top of the soup. If you prefer to experiment with levels to determine what’s right for you, leave some soy sauce on the side. Some even include a spoon of this ingredient while preparing the broth. This technique allows the noodles to absorb some flavor directly during preparation.

If you’re craving authentic saimin, visit Tasty Crust Restaurant in Wailuku, HI. The area’s leading diner has served mouthwatering American cuisine since 1942. They’re proud to offer a menu packed with comforting local favorites, such as saimin, teri chicken, and loco moco. Visit the website to browse the offerings at this restaurant, or call (808) 244-0845 to speak with a staff member.