Wood Ear Mushroom (kikurage)

生木耳

Kikurage, wood ear mushroom, is a common topping on Japanese ramen. This is because it adds a chewy texture and absorbs the flavors of the ramen noodles and of the ramen broth. It is called wood ear mushroom because its shape resembles that of an ear. Aside from the ramen flavor enhancement it provides, kikurage is also known for its rich nutritional value, containing a lot of fiber and iron.