Making noise when eating, especially slurping when relishing noodles, is heavily frowned upon in most parts of the world. It is considered rude and horridly uncouth.
But you’ve probably seen movies or video clips where the Japanese noisily slurp their noodles. Does that mean slurping your noodles in Japan is okay, or was it all done as part of a script?
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Slurping noodles in Japan
If you’ve never been to a noodle shop in Japan, you’d be in for a big surprise when you finally get to eat in one and hear the rhythmic sound of slurping noodles made by people around you.
Yes, this unseemly soundtrack of loud slurping ramen or saimin noodles in Japanese noodle bars is familiar and widely practiced by the general populace.
But why do they do it?
Reasons behind the slurping phenomenon in Japan
Being known for their staunchness in following rules and being polite, it is somewhat shocking that the Japanese, who typically disapprove of noise to avoid disturbing others, consider noisily slurping noodles normal and acceptable.
What is the reason behind this oddity when eating this specific type of Japanese food?
As weird as it may sound, slurping noodles is part of Japanese culture.
Form of Appreciation
Slurping soba and udon Japanese snacks in Japanese dining is not considered bad etiquette. Slurping your noodles shows your appreciation of the chef’s cooking skills and tells the chef how much you enjoy the food he prepared.
Have you seen the “Thor” movie where he smashed the mug to show his gratitude and satisfaction? Slurping may be considered the same way in Japan!
Better Eating Experience
Another reason for slurping is that it cools off the hot broth and noodles, making it easier to ingest without getting scalded. What’s more, this process can affect the flavor of the soup and its thickness.
It also allows you to eat the noodles at their best texture and form, which is right after being boiled, without getting soggy from soaking in the hot soup for too long.
Remember that eating noodles is best when they are springy, not mushy, so they should be eaten quickly and not slowly—hence the slurping.
Moreover, slurping noodles aerates both the soup and the noodles and amplifies the flavors when they touch your taste buds.
Slurping enhances the flavor of the noodles and broth as your sense of smell picks out the delicious aroma thru the air you suck in your mouth that reaches your nasal cavity.
This process is akin to what wine connoisseurs do when sampling good wine to expose the best taste and flavor hiding in it.
Lastly, slurping noodles adds delightful sensations when eating instead of stuffing a twirl of Japanese ramen inside your mouth. You get to revel in feeling the smooth noodles coated with flavorful hot broth passing through your lips and the insides of your mouth.
Art of Slurping
Art, rules, and a standard way of doing things exist in Japan. The same is true for slurping. Just making sloppy noises when eating your bowl of noodles wouldn’t make the cut.
To fully enjoy the bursting flavors of the broth while ensuring the noodles are firm when you eat them, the first thing to do is sample a mouthful of the broth before sucking the noodles.
That’s why deciding whether to have chopsticks or use a spoon or fork to eat ramen is essential.
When it is time to slurp the noodles, get just the right amount to avoid cutting the noodles mid-way slurping when you realize you cannot stuff them all in your mouth.
Moreover, keep in mind that when slurping, draw in as much air as you can to draw in not just the noodles but also the broth to enjoy the flavor and, at the same time, cool them down for easier eating.
Should you start slurping noodles too?
If you visit Japan and eat at a ramen bar, there is no reason not to slurp noodles if you want to experience how the locals do it. In any case, you are there to experience Japanese cuisine, culture, and tradition firsthand.
However, if you are uncomfortable making noise and do not wish to slurp your expensive ramen noodles, no one would tell you off or call you rude for not doing so.
At the end of the day, it all boils down to your personal preference.
Tips for Embracing Japanese Culinary Tradition
After spending some time living and soaking up the culture in Japan, I’ve got some insider tips to share. One thing that always raises eyebrows for newcomers is the whole noodle slurping thing.
Yup, it’s a thing, and trust me, it’s more fun than you might think.
Based on my own experiences, I’ve put together some down-to-earth recommendations to help you dive headfirst into the world of noodle slurping like a pro.
1. Embrace the Experience: I was initially taken aback when I first visited Japan and encountered the lively noodle slurping culture.
However, embracing the experience allowed me to immerse myself fully in Japanese culinary traditions. Sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to the most memorable experiences.
2. Respect Tradition: While slurping noodles may seem unconventional in many parts of the world, it’s essential to respect and understand their cultural significance.
By embracing this tradition, you not only show appreciation for Japanese cuisine but also demonstrate cultural sensitivity.
3. Practice Proper Technique: Slurping noodles isn’t just about making noise; it’s about enjoying the flavors and textures to the fullest.
Take the time to learn the proper technique, such as sampling the soup first and adjusting your slurping speed to avoid mishaps. This ensures a more enjoyable dining experience for yourself and those around you.
4. Don’t Feel Obligated: While slurping noodles is widely accepted in Japan, it’s perfectly okay if you’re uncomfortable with it.
Remember that dining experiences should be enjoyable and stress-free. If slurping isn’t your thing, nobody will judge you for it. Ultimately, it’s about enjoying the food in a way that feels right for you.
5. Be Open-Minded: Exploring different cultures through their culinary practices can be eye-opening and enriching.
Approach noodle slurping with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy it and the insights you gain into Japanese culture.
