The final layer of a bowl of ramen is the topping. Some toppings are meant to punctuate the bowl, while others are meant to complement it. I’ve given you a range of options to choose from—some are standard, like the chashu (rolled pork belly), and others are unique to Otaku Ramen shop, like the Pork Confit.

Do not be afraid to go off course here, either. This is where ramen can become regional and personal. I had a cook from Florida who wanted to make alligator ramen. It worked. I have seen crawfish ramen. Tofu three ways. You get the picture. Get creative here as you stroll the aisles of your Asian market or simply use what you have in the fridge.