Couple launch vegan ramen on the Gold Coast

THESE Japanese noodles may be renowned for a traditional pork-broth base, but two Miami locals have managed to create a meat-free version that’s finger lickin’ good.

Bob Douglas and Ashleigh Andrews at Bine Beer Bar. Picture: Jerad Williams

THESE Japanese noodles may be renowned for a traditional pork-broth base, but two Miami locals have managed to create a vegan ramen that’s finger lickin’ good.

Founders of ilikeramenco, Bob Douglas and Ashleigh Andrews, launched their vegan ramen pop-up shop three weeks ago after returning from Central America inspired by the local food.

“We did volunteer work in Belize,” Ms Andrews said.

The traditional Japanese bar food is now vegan. Picture: Jerad Williams

“A lot of people are vegan ... a lot of people didn’t eat meat, it was inspiring.”

But creating a plant-based broth for ramen was tricky, Mr Douglas said.

“We developed the flavours ourselves, but we had to develop it from nothing, from shiitake mushrooms or seaweed,” he said, adding ramen was traditionally made with a pork and miso broth.

“It’s definitely a challenge but I think we’ve come out on top, we’ve had great feedback.”

He said they decided on ramen specifically because they both loved the traditional Japanese bar dish, but the idea to open the shop came after travelling to Canada and helping a friend sell fresh oysters.

Bob Douglas with a bowl of vegan ramen. Picture: Jerad Williams

“We started (developing flavours) over there with another Australian friend and picked up some skills from the chef,” Ms Andrews said.

Mr Douglas said they wanted a food product that everyone could enjoy.

“Everyone can eat it,” he said. “(Having vegan ramen) really broadens your options.”

Vegan ramen. Picture: Jerad Williams

Mr Douglas said they had trialled selling the ramen at local markets and would be looking to sell their ramen there more permanently in the future.

But for now, ilikeramenco is at the Bine Beer Bar at Nobbys Beach every Tuesday night from 5pm.