Great news from Japanese convenience stores, especially those in Hokkaido! “Ramen Salad,” considered a “soul food” by Hokkaido locals, is being relaunched at 7-Eleven after a two-year hiatus. “Ramen Salad” is a unique Hokkaido-born dish featuring cold ramen noodles and vegetables dressed in a special sauce.Locally, it’s affectionately known as “Rā-sāra.” This relaunch features thorough improvements, from the noodles and ingredients to the packaging.
It will be released sequentially at Seven-Eleven stores in the Hokkaido area starting Thursday, January 22nd. Let’s keep an eye on the evolution of Japanese convenience store food (Konbini Food).
First Refresh in 2 Years! Three Key Renewal Points
For this renewal, the development team pursued “a taste unique to Hokkaido.” It has been reborn into a product loved by both foreign tourists visiting for sightseeing and local residents.
Point 1: Evolution to “Springy Noodles” that Stay Delicious Over Time
The biggest change is the noodles.We use Hokkaido-grown wheat flour for the noodles, the very soul of ramen salad. Furthermore, we completely reworked the flour blend. This ensures the noodles resist becoming soggy over time and maintain a firm, springy texture. As a product sold in convenience store bento sections, this is a crucial improvement. You can enjoy a texture as fresh as when made, not just immediately after purchase, but even when eaten back at your hotel.
Point 2: The “Hokkaido” Label You Can Spot Instantly
Hokkaido is currently in the midst of its winter tourist season. To instantly convey to visitors that “this is a gourmet item only available in Hokkaido,” a new label emphasizing “Hokkaido” has been adopted for the packaging. Even when displayed alongside rice balls (Onigiri) and sandwiches on the shelf, its special appeal stands out. The design is meant to evoke memories of a trip to Japan.
Point 3: “Colorful Presentation” and “Container” Designed for Social Media Appeal
Not only the taste, but also the visual satisfaction has been enhanced. The container shape has been changed to a wide-mouth type. This allows the generous toppings to be clearly visible. The “healthiness” and “freshness” of the salad come across directly. Furthermore, tomatoes have been added as a colorful accent.The beautiful contrast of green, yellow, and red creates a photogenic visual that stimulates your appetite even before you take a bite.
Hokkaido Specialty Ramen Salad with Steamed Chicken and Soft-Boiled Egg
First up is this product, featuring a classic combination.
Priced at ¥368 (¥397.44 including tax). Available throughout Hokkaido starting Thursday, January 22nd.
It features tender steamed chicken breast, prepared with a focus on moist texture, and a creamy soft-boiled egg as the main components.These are generously topped with fresh vegetables like tomato, mizuna, and cabbage. Bringing it all together is the appetizing, aromatic “Roasted Sesame Dressing.” The newly enhanced, springier noodles made from Hokkaido wheat pair perfectly with the rich sesame dressing and the refreshing steamed chicken. It’s a well-balanced dish, ideal for travelers concerned about getting enough vegetables.
Hokkaido Specialty: Ramen Salad with Tare Zangi
The second item is a hearty menu bursting with Hokkaido flavor.
Priced at ¥368 (¥397.44 including tax), it will also be available throughout Hokkaido starting Thursday, January 22nd.
In Hokkaido, fried chicken is called “Zangi.” The defining feature of this product is the Zangi finished with a sweet sauce. This is paired with a perfectly complementary tartar sauce.It might look a bit high in calories, but it’s the ultimate topping. The dressing is a spicy Japanese-style dressing that cuts through the oiliness of the Zangi nicely. It’s recommended when you want to fully savor the hearty Zangi and the firm noodles.
The Developer’s Vision and Pride as “Hokkaido Gourmet”
Regarding this renewal, the person in charge commented:”We want not only Hokkaido residents but also visitors during the winter tourist season to experience ‘the unique deliciousness of Hokkaido.'” While ramen salad is said to have originated as an izakaya menu item, it’s now an indispensable part of Hokkaido dining. The dedication evident in rethinking this staple dish—from the noodle blend to the container design—is extraordinary.
The vibrant presentation is sure to make your stomach rumble just seeing it on the shelves. Seven-Eleven’s “Ramen Salad” has evolved after two years. Whether you live in Hokkaido or plan to visit soon, be sure to check out the evolution at your nearest store.
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