Chapter 7 An Introduction to Triple Garlic Tonkotsu (TGT)
When ordering a TGT, be prepared—this bowl is not for the faint of heart. It’s bold, unapologetic, and packed with flavor. Once the tray arrives, you’ll see the trio of garlic: crispy, pickled, and black garlic floating atop the rich broth. The aroma hits first—nutty black garlic oil mingling with the sweetness of garlic confit. Lean closer to the pickled garlic, and a sharp tang of vinegar teases your senses.
Your eyes will then land on the toppings: a glistening slice of pork belly chashu, a marinated egg, scallions, and wood ear mushrooms.
There’s no strict order to follow, but one thing is certain: start immediately. I like to sample spoonfuls of soup from different areas to get my bearings. Near the edges, where black garlic oil collects, the broth has a pleasantly bitter depth. At the center, it’s sweeter and more balanced. The pickled garlic adds acidity that cuts through the richness beautifully—a touch of vinegar works wonders.
As the soup cools slightly, its flavors evolve. The aged soy sauce becomes more pronounced as the heat subsides; saltiness is less perceptible when food is piping hot.
Next are the noodles—the heart of any ramen bowl. I like to lift a few strands out of the broth to untangle them before slurping. Your first slurp is crucial—it sets the tone for everything that follows. Slurp boldly to incorporate air and cool down the noodles while savoring their flavor.
The texture is exceptional: soft yet chewy, almost al dente but with just enough density. Great noodles linger in your mouth long enough for their alkaline notes to shine through.
From here, it’s all about alternating between noodles, toppings, and soup until your cravings are satisfied. Occasionally, crispy garlic sneaks between your teeth, releasing an intense burst of flavor that reminds you why this dish is called Triple Garlic Tonkotsu.
As you near the bottom of the bowl, flavors become saltier and more intense—a deliberate design choice by physics. Hidden at the base is raw grated garlic waiting to deliver its final punch. This bold finish lingers long after your last bite—a gift from the chef that stays with you for hours.
