When we think of holiday food, most of us imagine the classics — roast meats, hearty stews, creamy gratins, or maybe a platter of smoked salmon. But in recent years, a surprising dish has started popping up on winter menus and festive gatherings across the world: ramen.
That’s right — the beloved Japanese noodle soup is slowly earning a place as a modern holiday comfort food, from cozy dinners in Stockholm to trendy restaurants in New York and holiday brunches in Copenhagen. And honestly, it makes perfect sense.
Why Ramen Works in Winter
Ramen is no stranger to cold-weather cravings, but its rise during the holiday season isn’t just a fluke. Here’s why it’s becoming a festive favorite:
Warm and comforting: Few dishes feel as instantly satisfying in cold weather as a steaming bowl of rich, umami-packed ramen.
Customizable and creative: You can infuse ramen with subtle holiday flavors — think glazed pork belly, mulled soy eggs, or pickled root vegetables.
A vegetarian dream: Plant-based holiday meals are on the rise, and ramen is a brilliant canvas. A mushroom miso broth with roasted kale and crispy onions is both festive and eco-friendly.
A reflection of global tastes: Today’s holiday tables are more diverse and personal. Ramen embodies the fusion of tradition and modern, international inspiration.
How to Give Ramen a Holiday Twist
Thinking about adding ramen to your holiday spread? Here are a few ways to make it feel seasonal and Nordic without losing its soul:
Start with a rich broth — homemade chicken or mushroom stock with soy, garlic, and a touch of ginger makes the perfect base.
Get creative with toppings: Add crispy Brussels sprouts, glazed pork, cured salmon, kale chips, or even mulled egg halves for a unique touch.
Serve it in smaller bowls as a cozy starter or surprise mid-course in a holiday dinner.
What to Drink with Holiday Ramen?
Pairing drinks with ramen depends on your broth and toppings, but here are some festive options:
1. Light beer — like lager or a crisp pilsner
Clean, refreshing, and perfect for cutting through umami-rich flavors.
2. Off-dry Riesling
A lightly sweet Riesling pairs beautifully with salty or spiced elements — ideal for ramen with cured fish or ginger.
3. Sparkling wine or sake
Champagne or Cava adds elegance and lift. Warm sake brings comfort and honors the dish’s origins.
4. Non-alcoholic options
Try cold-brewed oolong tea or a tart apple cider for a seasonal, refreshing pairing.
Rethinking Holiday Food – Without Losing the Feeling
Adding ramen to your winter table doesn’t mean replacing tradition — it means expanding it. Whether you serve it during a casual December dinner, a cozy pre-Christmas gathering, or even a relaxed New Year’s lunch, ramen brings people together in the way all great holiday dishes do: it’s warm, soulful, and full of care.
And who knows — it might just become your new seasonal tradition.
