Top 10 Best Instant Ramen Noodles

 

Best Instant Ramen Noodles Champions Ranked

Instant ramen noodles have become a global phenomenon since their invention in 1958 by Momofuku Ando. These convenient cup noodles have evolved from simple flavours to gourmet offerings, captivating taste buds worldwide. The best instant ramen noodles combine quality ingredients, authentic flavours, and satisfying textures to elevate the quick meal experience.

From classic chicken ramen flavour to exotic spicy seafood, instant ramen varieties cater to diverse palates. Many top-rated brands incorporate regional specialties, like Indonesia's mi goreng or Japan's tonkatsu, bringing international cuisine to kitchens everywhere. Some even offer healthier options with reduced sodium or added vegetables, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

Whether you're a uni student on a budget, a busy professional seeking a quick lunch, or simply craving a comforting bowl of noodle soup, this list of the top ten instant noodles will guide you to the most delicious options available. These selections promise to satisfy your instant noodle cravings with their exceptional taste and quality.

How We Chose Our Top 10?

Our team at AGO embarked on a comprehensive tasting journey to determine the best instant noodles available. We sampled a wide range of brands and flavours, from budget-friendly classics to premium offerings.

• Taste was our primary consideration. We evaluated the depth and complexity of flavours in both the noodles and the accompanying broth or seasoning.

• Texture played a crucial role in our assessment. We looked for bouncy noodles that maintained a pleasing bite and didn't become mushy when cooked.

• We aimed to include a diverse selection of flavours and styles to cater to different palates. This included traditional varieties as well as innovative modern interpretations, such as those featuring fried shallots or shrimp paste for added depth.

• Availability was factored into our decision-making process. We prioritised brands that are widely accessible to consumers across Australia, including at your local Asian grocery store.

• Value for money was carefully considered. While we included some premium options, we ensured that our list featured affordable choices suitable for budget-conscious shoppers and university students.

• We also took into account the convenience factor, assessing how quickly and easily each product could be prepared. This is particularly important for those seeking a quick, comforting meal.

Our final list represents a balanced selection of instant noodles that excel in taste, texture, and overall quality while offering good value for consumers.

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1. Nongshim Shin Black Ramen

Nongshim Shin Black Ramen stands out as a premium version of the beloved Shin Ramyun. This Korean instant noodle offering elevates the classic recipe with a richer, more complex broth. The soup base features a hearty blend of beef and vegetable flavours, creating a robust first-taste profile. Spice lovers will appreciate the signature heat that Shin Ramyun is known for, though it's balanced by a deeper umami flavour.

What sets Shin Black apart are its upgraded ingredients:

• Thick, chewy noodles

• Premium beef stock

• Added vegetables like mushrooms and black garlic oil

• A separate packet of beef soup base

The noodles retain their texture well, even after cooking. They provide a satisfying bite that complements the rich broth perfectly.

Preparation is simple:

1. Boil water

2. Add noodles and a vegetable packet

3. Cook for 4-5 minutes

4. Stir in the soup base and beef packet

While pricier than standard instant ramen, Shin Black offers a more substantial meal. Its flavour profile rivals that of restaurant-quality top ramen, making it a top choice for discerning noodle enthusiasts.

2. Indomie Mi Goreng

Indomie Mi Goreng stands out as a beloved Indonesian instant noodle brand. These dry noodles offer a unique twist on traditional ramen, requiring no broth. The non-fried noodle boasts a satisfying chewy texture, striking a nice balance between firmness and tenderness. Unlike some instant noodles, Indomie Mi Goreng uses air-dried noodles rather than fried noodles, resulting in a lighter feel.

Flavour-wise, Indomie Mi Goreng delivers a complex profile. The seasoning packet combines sweet soy sauce, savoury flavours of onion and garlic notes, and a subtle spiciness. A small sachet of flavoured oil adds richness and depth. Some variations even include a little packet of fried shallots for extra crunch and flavour.

Preparation is simple:

1. Boil noodles for 3 minutes

2. Drain completely

3. Mix in sauce packets

4. Stir well and enjoy

Many fans appreciate the customizability of Indomie Mi Goreng. Common additions include:

• Fried egg

• Vegetables (e.g. bok choy, spring and green onions)

• Protein (e.g. chicken, tofu)

The brand offers various flavours beyond the original, including BBQ Chicken and Hot & Spicy. Its popularity extends well beyond Indonesia, with a strong following in Australia and other countries.

3. Yumyum Instant Noodle Chicken

Yumyum Instant Noodle Chicken offers a satisfying taste experience for ramen enthusiasts. The artificial chicken flavour provides a familiar and comforting profile that appeals to a wide range of palates. The broth strikes a balance between savoury and umami notes, creating a well-rounded taste. While not as rich as tonkatsu ramen, it still delivers a flavourful base for the noodles.

Spiciness levels are moderate, making it accessible to those who prefer milder options. For those seeking extra heat, adding chilli oil can elevate the spice factor.

Key features of Yumyum Instant Noodle Chicken:

• Tender rice noodles with good texture

• Aromatic chicken-flavoured seasoning

• Quick and easy preparation

• Affordable price point

Many consumers appreciate the convenience and reliability of this instant ramen option. It serves as a go-to choice for quick meals or late-night snacks. While not the most complex or gourmet instant ramen available, Yumyum Instant Noodle Chicken delivers on its promise of a tasty, no-fuss meal. Its widespread availability and consistent quality contribute to its enduring popularity.

4. Samyang Spicy Ramen/Buldak Ramen

Samyang's Buldak Ramen has taken the instant noodle world by storm with its fiery flavours and intense heat. This Korean brand offers a range of spicy chicken-based noodles that have become a global sensation. The Buldak series features multiple flavours, each with its own unique spice level and taste profile. From the original red-packaged version to variations like carbonara and cheese, there's a Buldak flavour for every palate.

What sets Buldak apart is its extreme spiciness. The noodles can reach up to 10,000 Scoville units, making them one of the hottest instant ramen available. This intense heat has sparked numerous online challenges and viral videos. Despite the focus on spice, Buldak noodles don't skimp on taste. Many flavours incorporate a balanced blend of salty, sweet, and oily notes. Some varieties include sesame oil flavour or soy sauce for added depth.

For those who find the heat overwhelming, Buldak offers milder options. The carbonara and cheese flavours provide a creamy contrast to the spice while still delivering a satisfying heat. Buldak Ramen has gained a dedicated following, with fans ranking their favourite instant noodles. Popular choices include the original spicy chicken, carbonara, and cheese versions. The brand continues to innovate, regularly introducing new and exciting flavours to keep noodle enthusiasts coming back for more.

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5. Sapporo Ichiban

Sapporo Ichiban stands out as a classic instant ramen choice. Its thin, chewy noodles pair perfectly with a well-balanced broth that offers a satisfying umami flavour. The brand's signature taste captures the essence of authentic Japanese ramen. Unlike some competitors, Sapporo Ichiban avoids overwhelming saltiness, delivering a more nuanced flavour profile.

Sapporo Ichiban offers several popular varieties:

• Shio (salt)

• Miso

• Shoyu (soy sauce)

• Tonkotsu (pork bone)

Each flavour provides a distinct culinary experience, catering to diverse preferences. While not marketed as a healthier option, Sapporo Ichiban does include some dehydrated vegetables in its packets. These add a touch of nutrition and texture to the meal. For those seeking additional protein, adding a boiled egg or some cooked chicken can enhance the nutritional value. Vegetarians might opt for tofu or extra vegetables to boost the protein content.

Sapporo Ichiban's convenience and taste have made it a favourite among instant ramen enthusiasts. Its widespread availability in supermarkets and Asian grocery stores contributes to its popularity.

6. Nissin Demae

Nissin Demae stands out as a top contender in the instant ramen market. This Japanese brand has earned its place among the best with its authentic flavours and high-quality ingredients.

The Demae line offers a variety of classic Japanese tastes. Popular choices include:

• Shoyu (soy sauce)

• Miso

• Tonkotsu (pork bone)

• Curry

Nissin hot noodles are known for their perfect texture. They maintain a pleasant chewiness even after cooking, avoiding the mushiness often associated with instant noodles. The soup base is where Nissin Demae truly shines. Each flavour packet contains a blend of carefully selected seasonings that create a rich, satisfying broth. The depth of taste rivals that of freshly made ramen from a Japanese restaurant.

Ramen enthusiasts and experts alike praise Nissin Demae for its consistency. The brand frequently appears on the top ten instant noodles lists, earning recommendations from discerning reviewers like Lucas Kwan Peterson and The Ramen Rater.

While not as spicy as some Korean or Southeast Asian varieties, Nissin Demae offers a balanced taste that appeals to a wide range of palates. Its mild yet flavourful profile makes it an excellent choice for those new to instant ramen. Nissin Demae proves that convenience doesn't mean sacrificing quality. With its authentic taste and superior ingredients, it's a go-to option for ramen lovers seeking a quick, satisfying meal.

7. Maggi Asam Laksa

Maggi Asam Laksa instant noodles offer a unique flavour experience inspired by the popular Malaysian dish. These noodles capture the essence of asam laksa with their distinctive sour and spicy taste profile. The broth is rich and tangy, featuring a blend of tamarind, chilli, and fish flavours. It's complemented by Maggi's signature wheat noodles, which have a satisfying texture when cooked al dente.

What sets Maggi Asam Laksa apart is its authentic taste, closely mimicking the traditional dish. The seasoning packet includes dried herbs and spices that enhance the overall flavour complexity. For those seeking a quick and convenient way to enjoy Malaysian cuisine, Maggi Asam Laksa is an excellent choice. It's particularly popular among students and busy professionals looking for a flavourful meal option. Some variations even include a little packet of hae bee hiam (spicy dried shrimp sambal) for an extra kick of flavour.

While not as widely known as some other instant noodle brands like Shin Ramyun or Indomie, Maggi Asam Laksa has gained a loyal following. Its unique taste makes it stand out in the crowded instant noodle market. To enhance the eating experience, consider adding fresh ingredients like mint leaves, sliced pineapple, or a squeeze of lime. These additions can elevate the flavour and make it more reminiscent of the authentic laksa dish. Some even enjoy adding a touch of coconut milk powder for extra creaminess.

8. Ottogi Jin Ramen Spicy

Ottogi Jin Ramen Spicy delivers a fiery punch of Korean flavour in a convenient instant noodle package. The robust spice level caters to heat enthusiasts seeking a thrilling culinary experience. These Jin ramen noodles boast a generous portion size, ensuring a satisfying meal. The wheat-based noodles are thick and chewy, holding up well in the spicy broth.

The flavour packet contains a blend of red chilli, garlic, and other aromatic spices. When mixed with hot water, it creates a rich, deep-red broth that tantalises the taste buds. Preparation is quick and straightforward. Simply add boiling water to the noodles and flavour packet, then let it sit for 3-4 minutes. For a creamier texture, some fans add a slice of American cheese or a dollop of milk.

Jin Ramen's spiciness is balanced by savoury notes from beef bone stock and umami-rich ingredients like kelp extract and mushroom. Dehydrated vegetables, including carrots and green onion, add texture and nutrition. Ottogi offers other popular varieties in their range. Ottogi Kimchi Ramen incorporates the tangy, fermented flavours of Korea's national dish. Ottogi Yeul Ramen provides a milder option for those seeking less heat.

9. Chapagetti

Chapagetti stands out in the instant noodle world with its unique Korean-Chinese fusion flavour. Based on the popular jjajangmyeon dish, these black bean noodles offer a taste of Korea's favourite takeaway meal in a convenient package. The star of Chapagetti is its rich black bean sauce. This luxuriant sauce coats the noodles with a savoury, slightly sweet flavour that's both comforting and satisfying. The texture of the noodles is pleasantly chewy, providing a good bite that complements the sauce perfectly.

Chapagetti's packaging is distinctive, featuring bold colours and appetising imagery. Inside, you'll find separate sachets for the sauce, vegetable flakes, and seasoning oil. This allows for the customisation of flavour intensity. To prepare, simply cook the noodles, drain, and mix with the provided sachets. For added authenticity, some enjoy tossing in diced onions, carrots, or even small pieces of pork.

While not as spicy as some Korean instant noodles, Chapagetti offers a unique flavour profile that sets it apart. Its popularity extends beyond Korea, with noodle enthusiasts worldwide seeking out this tasty black bean creation. Many fans claim it's been their favourite instant noodles for their entire life.

10. Neoguri

Neoguri stands out as a top contender in the instant noodle market. This Korean brand offers a unique spicy seafood flavour that has captivated ramen enthusiasts worldwide. The noodles boast a distinctively chewy texture, providing a satisfying bite. Neoguri's broth delivers a robust seafood taste, complemented by a spicy kick that warms the palate.

Popularity among Korean ramen fans has propelled Neoguri to international recognition. Its success reflects the growing consumer demand for authentic Asian flavours in the instant noodle category. Nongshim, the company behind Neoguri, continues to innovate with this product line. They've introduced variations like Neoguri Udon, catering to diverse consumer preferences.

The instant noodle market has seen a trend towards premium offerings, and Neoguri fits this mould. Its quality ingredients and bold flavour profile position it as a step above basic instant ramen options. Neoguri's packaging typically includes dried vegetables and multiple flavour packets, allowing consumers to customise their noodle experience. This aligns with the trend of personalisation in food products.

For those seeking a flavourful and satisfying instant noodle option, Neoguri delivers a taste of Korean cuisine in a convenient package. It's often considered equally delicious to other top-rated brands like Red Chef or Ippudo Karaka Spicy Ramen. You can check out the Ippudo ramen recipe for making the perfect ramen. 

How to Upgrade Your Instant Ramen?

Instant ramen can be transformed into a gourmet meal with a few simple additions. One easy method is to cook the noodles in stock instead of water for added flavour. Adding an egg can significantly enhance the dish. Try the egg-drop technique by swirling the hot broth and slowly drizzling in a beaten egg to create delicate egg ribbons.

Vegetables are a nutritious upgrade. Toss in some frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots during the last minute of cooking. Fresh spinach or bok choy can be added just before serving. For protein, consider adding cooked chicken, prawns, or tofu. Sliced pork belly or bacon can also add a rich, savoury element to the dish.

Aromatics like garlic, ginger, and spring onions can elevate the flavour profile. Sauté these briefly before adding the broth for maximum impact.

Garnishes to try:

• Sesame seeds

• Nori (seaweed) strips

• Fresh herbs (coriander, Thai basil)

• A splash of chilli oil

A dollop of miso paste or a dash of soy sauce can deepen the umami flavour. For a creamy twist, try stirring in a spoonful of mayonnaise. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect upgraded ramen bowl. These simple additions can turn a basic instant meal into a satisfying and impressive dish.

Nutritional Considerations

Instant ramen noodles are often high in sodium and low in essential nutrients. Many brands contain excessive amounts of salt, saturated fats, and preservatives. However, some companies are developing healthier alternatives. Immi offers plant-based, keto-friendly options with 21 grams of protein per serving. ZENB Ramen uses yellow peas to provide 18 grams of protein and 12 grams of fibre.

To improve the nutritional value of instant ramen:

• Choose lower-sodium varieties

• Add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or spinach

• Include protein sources such as eggs, tofu, or lean meats

• Use only half the flavour packet to reduce sodium intake

Nutritional comparison of popular instant ramen brands

While instant ramen can be part of a balanced diet, it should not be relied upon as a primary food source. Moderation and mindful choices are key to incorporating these convenient meals into a healthy eating plan.

Slurp, Savor, Repeat: Your Ramen Adventure Awaits

Embark on a taste-bud-tingling journey through our diverse instant ramen collection. Ready to discover your new favourite quick meal? Explore our ramen wonderland today!

The Verdict on Our Top 10

This list showcases a diverse range of instant ramen options from around the world. Each selection offers unique flavours and textures to satisfy different tastes. From Indonesia's mi goreng to Japan's classic tonkotsu, these instant noodles deliver authentic regional flavours in convenient packages. Many feature high-quality ingredients and innovative cooking methods.

Some standouts include the rich prawn broth of MyKuali's Penang White Curry and the spicy kick of Samyang's Buldak ramen. For those seeking healthier choices, MìLà's noodle kits provide gourmet quality with better nutritional profiles. The texture is key in instant ramen. The top picks offer satisfyingly chewy noodles that hold up well during cooking. Manufacturers have made strides in replicating the mouthfeel of fresh ramen.

Customisation is easy with these products. Adding a soft-boiled egg, fresh vegetables, or leftover meat can elevate the meal. Many come with flavour packets and toppings to enhance the experience. Trying these top-rated instant ramen is an excellent way to explore global cuisines from home. They offer a quick, tasty meal option for busy days or late-night cravings.