Look, we all know anime food is beautiful. But what if you could make it look as beautiful in real life? It’s time to put your skills to the test.
Introducing Naruto Ramen Chowdown, a five-episode Instagram TV video series presented by Funimation and VIZ Media that shows you how to cook up unique instant ramen dishes, each inspired by your favorite classic Naruto characters!
The series, hosted by the incredible Chef Jonathan Kung, takes you step-by-step through each of his inspired dishes, from the iconic, young ninja himself, Naruto, to the diabolical Orochimaru.
“Funimation is always looking for innovative ways to engage our fans, and food is the perfect ‘entre’ point,” said Gita Rebbapragada, Chief Marketing Officer at Funimation Global Group. “By extending our long-term partnership with VIZ Media, Naruto Ramen Chowdown showcases this iconic anime classic in a unique and savory way. And we all know that community is built around food.”
Each dish is made with affordable ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps, which means you can follow along at home and recreate them in your kitchen! The best part? Share your own creations on social media using #RamenChowdown, and we’ll showcase our favorites! Make the budding Hokage proud, chefs!
It all kicks off with Episode 1 of Naruto Ramen Chowdown this Friday, March 12. New episodes drop every Friday. Want to get ready? Head over to the Funimation Instagram and make sure you’re following so you’ll be ready when the first episode drops.
Jonathan Kung is a Detroit-based chef, cook, and influencer whose experience varies from dishing out noodles at secret raves to conceptualizing and serving 10-course tasting menus based on Hayao Miyazaki films at his word-of-mouth-only studio kitchen. When he’s not working independently, he is also working for and collaborating with some of Detroit’s most celebrated chefs and restaurants. He started watching Naruto Shippuden later on, mostly as “self-educating” on something he’s seen referenced in pop-culture so often. While starting half a decade behind, he quickly caught up to the series up until the finale and became a solid fan. Kung has a massive following, with more than 12M video views per month.
