Smoked Tonkotsu Ramen with Seared Pork Belly & Arctic Panzer Wolf

Alongside a good portion of the eating public, I've recently developed an infatuation with ramen.  It's not very original - everyone is obsessed with it right now - but it's something I'm taking seriously. Maybe it's because High Five Ramen (arguably the city's bet) opened up just blocks from my house.  Maybe because on my last trip to NYC I discovered the glory that is Totto Ramen, a tiny basement restaurant with 12 seats that Sarah and I waited an hour and a half - in the rain, sans umbrellas - to get in to.  Or Maybe it's because the wisdom of Japan rings true … That ramen, with it's warm, silken broth and curly noodles is the ultimate comfort food.   Whatever the reason, with the onset of Fall, it's become our go-to Sunday wind down treat and this week I decided to make my own.

Ajo Blanco (White Gazpacho) & Sorachi Ace

With a sticky, humid 86 degrees, Summer officially marched into Chicago this weekend.
Though, I'm sure these temperatures will feel mild as the Summer progresses, today it felt
HOT!  And in the restaurant's kitchen, with its roaring ovens and sizzling grills, it felt even
HOTTER.  I dragged home, viscous and fuzzy headed and craving something cool and
refreshing.  A good beer, obviously ... and Gazpacho!