Ramen Type
Instant Ramen
What is Instant Ramen?
Instant ramen was invented by Momofuku Ando and introduced by Nissin Foods in 1958 under the name Chicken Ramen — the world's first instant noodle product. The innovation: pre-cooked noodles flash-dried in palm oil (later air-dried for healthier varieties), paired with a flavored seasoning packet. Cup Noodles followed in 1971 and became a global phenomenon.
In the US, instant ramen is a cultural institution. Over 4 billion servings are consumed annually, spanning dorm rooms and professional kitchens alike. Contemporary "hacking" culture — upgrading instant ramen with eggs, butter, sriracha, and cheese — has given the humble packet a gourmet revival. Korean brands like Samyang and Nongshim have driven a premium tier, competing on flavor complexity and viral heat challenges.
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How to Make Instant Ramen
- 1
Boil Water
Bring 2–2.5 cups of water to a rolling boil. This is the only step that cannot be upgraded with technique.
- 2
Cook Noodles
Add noodle block and cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Do not overcook — remove from heat with a few seconds of bite remaining.
- 3
Season and Upgrade
Add half the seasoning packet (reduces sodium by 40%). Stir in butter, sesame oil, a soft-boiled egg, sliced scallion, and a splash of soy sauce for a restaurant-quality upgrade in 5 minutes total.
Where to Buy in the US
- Supermarkets
- Maruchan, Top Ramen, and Nissin available at virtually every US grocery chain.
- Asian Grocery Stores
- H Mart and 99 Ranch carry Shin Ramyun, Nongshim, Samyang Buldak, and 50+ premium varieties.
- Online
- Amazon offers variety packs of premium Korean and Japanese instant ramen in bulk.
- Whole Foods
- Annie Chun, Dr. McDougall, and Lotus Foods air-dried ramen for health-conscious shoppers.
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Instant Ramen Essentials
Nissin Cup Noodles Variety Pack (24-count)
The original Cup Noodle in four classic flavors — the OG instant ramen.
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Lotus Foods Millet & Brown Rice Ramen
Gluten-free, non-fried instant ramen with a clean label.
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Nongshim Shin Ramyun 20-Pack
Korea's #1 spicy beef ramyun — a pantry staple for instant-ramen enthusiasts.
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