The main ingredient in traditional Japanese ramen is wheat flour. This forms the basis of the ramen noodles, which are central to this popular dish. The noodles are typically made using a mixture of wheat flour, water, salt, and kansui, a type of alkaline mineral water that gives them their characteristic texture and color. Depending on the region and specific style, different types of noodles may be employed, ranging from thin and straight to thick and wavy. Ramen can be served in various broth styles, such as shoyu (soy sauce), miso, or tonkotsu (pork bone), contributing to its diverse flavor profiles.