Kansui is used to make fresh ramen noodles. Kansui Powder is mixed into water and then added to flour to make the noodle dough. Without kansui, it's not ramen. Four types of Kansui Powder are available from Ramen Supply Company. Type 1 is 100% Sodium Carbonate. This is great for thicker noodles where you don't want to add the extra hardness that comes from Potassium Carbonate. Type 2 is 60% Potassium Carbonate and 40% Sodium Carbonate. This is a nicely balanced kansui that works for most types of noodles. It's the most common mix used. Type 3 is 80% Potassium Carbonate, 15% Sodium Carbonate, and 5% Phosphate Salts. This is great for thinner, low-hydration noodles. The higher percentage of Potassium Carbonate gives you a harder noodle which is usually what you want for a thinner noodle like Hakata-style. The Phosphate Salts provide hydration assistance, making it easier for the flour to become hydrated and retain your kansui water. Type 4 is 100% Potassium Carbonate. This is typically used in conjunction with Type 1 by those looking to customize their kansui composition. Please read warnings and instructions carefully before using. A scale reading to at least 0.1 grams is recommended. Contains 6 oz (170 grams) Kansui Powder.
