Category: United States

Even More Noodles From James Of Lakeside, CA

Well, would you look at that? Without warning, this guy strikes again! Jame of Lakeside, California has been sending over noodles for a couple of years now – thanks again! Let’s see what’s inside! ...see full post

#4184: Poco Kitchen Pork & Ginger Ramen – United States

#4184: Poco Kitchen Pork & Ginger Ramen - United States

I remember a few weeks ago looking at my browser – repeatedly, I would see this same ad. I finally, figured it was a demand that I reach out to this company and so I did. I was sent samples, and now we get to try them! When I initially saw their offerings, I thought these were boil in bag or microwave varieties. That’s not the case – they’re cook on stove – and I’m really curious how they’re going to be. Well, let’s find out! ...see full post

#4076: Nissin Cup Noodles Stir Fry Rice With Noodles Thai Yellow Curry Flavor – United States

#4076: Nissin Cup Noodles Stir Fry Rice With Noodles Thai Yellow Curry Flavor - United States

Big thanks to James from Lakeside, CA for sending this over! At first I was curious how they would go about doing this and then I opened the lid. Crushed noodles. I had a quick ‘a-ha’ moment and remember way back I reviewed good old #1506. 1506 was Nissin Mug – which was a variety from India and almost the same thing – instant noodles that are in rice sized lengths. This however has both the short crushed noodles AND rice. I’m very intrigued and curious about this. This right here is the kind of innovation and unique thing I have been talking about – and seeing something like this in the US market is a thrill, honestly. Let’s take a look and give this one a try! ...see full post

Premium Varieties From Poco Kitchen

Started seeing ads for Poco Kitchen while browsing the web, so I figured I ought to reach out to them. This is a different thing – while they might look like microwavable bags, the noodles and seasoning are dry ; nothing wrong with that at all, just not as expected. The result though was quite nice. ...see full post

#4074: Noodie Tonkotsu Irresistible Ramen – United States

#4074: Noodie Tonkotsu Irresistible Ramen - United States

This is the third variety of Noodie Vegan ramen I have here to try and I’m really stoked! The first I tried was their Peanut Chili which was absolutely fantastic stuff – just loved it. The second was the Smoky Garlic, and sadly, I really disliked that one. But now we have a Vegan Tonkotsu and I’ve had quite a few Vegan tonkotsus in the past, so I’m hoping this one will be great. Let’s give it a try! ...see full post

#4067: Noodie Smoky Garlic Irresistible Ramen – United States

#4067: Noodie Smoky Garlic Irresistible Ramen - United States

I’m absolutely fascinated and enamored with this new brand. Their products are very uniquely packaged for one, and for two, they’re quite good – at least that was my experience with their peanut chili variety. Let’s give the smoky garlic a try in hopes that it’s got some serious garlic flavor going on! ...see full post

#4066: Yumei Noodle With Scallion Oil – United States

#4066: Yumei Noodle With Scallion Oil - United States

Alright so first off – this is made in China, however the package is definitely made for sale in the United States. Second, I found this at Asian Food Center on Hwy 99/Aurora by Shoreline, WA – definitely a great place to visit every couple of months. I’ve found tons of unique variants there. Let’s check it out! ...see full post

#4064: Ramen Express By Chef Woo Hotter & Spicier Chili – United States

#4064: Ramen Express By Chef Woo Hotter & Spicier Chili - United States

To be honest, this makes me very happy. I’ve really found the Ramen Express varieties to be quite good, and now they’re easily found at Walmart. I’m not extremely keen on the cup versions (although I haven’t had the new shrimp variety so maybe they’ve changed; I will soon), but the packs have a great noodle and very nice flavors. I’m unsure if this is different than the origininal hotter and spicier variety; this one tacks ‘chili’ on the end and has different packaging. Saw it at Walmart a couple of days ago. ...see full post

#4061: Menraku Japanese Ramen “Spicy Sesame” – United States

Menraku Japanese Ramen "Spicy Sesame" - United States

This one came from Exotic Noods! Exotic Noods has great monthly subscription boxes with products from around the world. Worth a look! Use coupon code THERAMENRATER for a discount! ...see full post

#4060: Nissin Raoh Miso Flavor Ramen Noodle Soup – United States

Nissin Raoh Miso Flavor Ramen Noodle Soup - United States

This one came from Exotic Noods! Exotic Noods has great monthly subscription boxes with products from around the world. Worth a look! Use coupon code THERAMENRATER for a discount! ...see full post

#4059: J-Basket Japanese Style Noodle Soup Curry Flavor – United States

#4059: J-Basket Japanese Style Noodle Soup Curry Flavor - United States

This one came from Exotic Noods! Exotic Noods has great monthly subscription boxes with products from around the world. Worth a look! Use coupon code THERAMENRATER for a discount! ...see full post

Out Of The ICU! Maruchan Feel Better Recovery Ramen!

An older package of Maruchan Chicken flavor Ramen Noodle Soup

You may have seen that I was in the hospital this week. I can describe the whole thing in the video below since it has been typed a lot of times and I had a TON of blood draws in the past few days and to put it short, they had to get them out of my dominant hand and it’s a little sore after being poked so many times, so my apologies. ...see full post

The Definitive Guide To Nongshim Shin Ramyun Noodles

The Definitive Guide To Nongshim Shin Ramyun Noodles

Definitive Guide Series – Maruchan Ramen Noodle SoupSamyang Buldak * Nongshim Shin Ramyun * Indomie Mi Goreng
UPDATE 3/15/2023 – Added Shin Vegan cup
UPDATE 3/12/2023 – Added section referring to new Shin Gold and Shin Green US variants.

Back in 1986, a South Korean company called Nongshim 농심 (which translates to Farmer’s Heart), introduced a product called Shin Ramyun. Since then it has been one of the most popular varieties around the world. In this post, I’ll do a deep dive into the product – a tear down of the package and it’s contents, my tips of preparation, and some things you might not know about it. While not my favorite variety I’ve tried, chances are it may be yours. I run a group called Ramen Junkies on Facebook and the topic and focus of the bulk of posts on there surround this product. ...see full post

#4051: Schylling Ramen Noodlies – United States

#4051: Schylling Ramen Noodlies - United States

Today, I have something that should get some folks in a tizzy but that’s just fine. I’m reviewing instant noodles. Well, sort of. Well, not really. This is a toy. Don’t eat these. I mean, you could I suppose, but I’m telling you not to. See, it says that this toy is for ages 3 and up. So, they’re figuring you and small children will have the sense not to try and cook them and eat them. Let’s check out these sproigy and stretch things. ...see full post

#4043: Vite Ramen Vegan White Miso v1.2 – United States

#4043: Vite Ramen Grilled Vegan White Miso v1.2 - United States

Yup – another newer version Vite Ramen! Once I get through all these, the prototypes for version 1.3 will be next! I remember I really liked this one – let’s see how this improved version does! ...see full post

Another Donation From James Of Lakeside, California

Another Donation From James Of Lakeside, California

So for a couple years now, a fellow ramen enthusiast from Lakeside, California named James has been shooting over varieties of instant noodles not on my Big List – very kind and thoroughly appreciated – my thanks! Let’s see what he sent over this time! ...see full post

Exotic Noods Subscription Box – December 2021

Exotic Noods Subscription Box - December 2021

A little late to get a holiday gift for someone? Want to try some noodles? Check it out! It’s Exotic Noods! A box every month of absolutely awesome noodles from around the world! Use the coupon code THERAMENRATER  for a discount! ...see full post

#4040: Vite Ramen x Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Edition v1/2 – United States

#4040: Vite Ramen Sichuan Chili Edition - United States

So what I love about what these guys do is they come out with new versions. This particular variety is version 1.2. This one is a special collaboration with a company called Fly By Jing that makes Sichuan Chili Crisp, one of the true flavor delicacies. Let’s check it out! ...see full post

FreshRamen4All.com Sends Fresh Ramen!

I’ve tried a couple services that send out fresh ramen in the past. These folks at www.freshramen4all.com sent me an email asking if I’d like to try theirs! So I’ve tried all three and was quite pleasantly surprised. Great noodles (they make them themselves), amazing broths, and garnish to die for. The reviews will be coming soon, but you’ll see pics of what I did and everything they provide. If you want to get some, head over to www.freshramen4all.com and use coupon code THERAMENRATER for a discount! ...see full post

#4035: Mr Lee’s Congee Chicken Congee Rice Porridge – United States

#4035: Mr Lee's Congee Chicken Congee Rice Porridge - United States

Here’s the second variety of the Mr Lee’s Congee – chicken. These have freeze dried vegetables and chicken in them – let’s check it out! ...see full post

#4034: Mr Lee’s Congee Original Congee Rice Porridge – United States

#4034: Mr Lee's Congee Original Congee Rice Porridge - United States

So not too long ago, Mr Lee’s started running US operations as well as in the UK! So I got to trysome new product right away. This is congee – rice porridge. It’s made basically from shredded instant rice. Let’s check it out! ...see full post

Nissin Cup Noodles Stir Fry Korean BBQ Christmas Pie!

Nissin Cup Noodles Stir Fry Korean BBQ Christmas Pie!

I know. I know. You’re at a loss for what to enjoy on Christmas. Sick of turkey, ham is salty, beef is full of beef. Herring? Vegetables? You want something delightful yet different and unique – you want this to be the best Christmas feast you’ve ever indulged in. ...see full post

#4033: Noodie Peanut Chili Irresistible Ramen – United States

#4033: Noodie Peanut Chili Irresistible Ramen - United States

I received an email a few weeks ago from Isabel, CEO and Founder of Noodie. She extolled the virtue of her product (non-fried, 16g of protein, lower sodium, load of veggies, and Vegan-friendly) and asked if I’d like to try it. Never one to turn down the chance to try something new, I accepted – and here we are. I write this before tasting, but I’ve got it say I’m already impressed. The presentation here is just impeccable – downright revolutionary to be honest. You can cook these noodles in their container (which is plastic by the way). You can cok it like a cup noodle, however the noodle block is in a standard flat shape – which works with the container. The graphic design and fonts are great – you can’t tell from the above picture, but the contents of the bowl image are done with gold leaf! This honestly feels like a futuristic instant noodle. Isabel sent a very nice note about how my review would be a big milestone in the timeline of her product. Like I said at this point of writing, I’ve not tried it yet – but I definitely wanted to say that this is one of the neatest packaged noodles I’ve seen. With that, let’s begin. ...see full post

#4032: Maruchan Instant Lunch Select Chicken Flavor – United States

#4032: Maruchan Instant Lunch Select Chicken Flavor - United States

I saw these on Amazon recently and though I should contact Maruchan about giving them a try – and they kindly obliged. Thank you! There’s a couple interesting things I’ve noticed that I’ll mention as you scroll down and look at the images and text. With that, let’s check out this, the biggest change I’ve seen to date of the Instant Lunch cup. Actually first, look at the lower left corner. See that? Microwavable – unbeknownst to many, no – you’re not supposed to microwave the foam cups – but these aren’t foam cups. ...see full post

Soupply Sends Super Premium Pho Noodle Bowls

Soupply Sends Super Premium Pho Noodle Bowls

I recently found out about Soupply – a manufacturer of high end pho noodle bowls. I think the best way to describe them is super premium. What’s neat about them is that they contain retort pouches. Retort pouches are popular in many countries, but especially in the instant noodle of Taiwan. They contain meat and other ingredients which push the envelope of instant noodles. Let’s check out Soupply’s offering and see what’s in store! ...see full post

#4025: Myojo Nagasaki Champon Creamy Tonkotsu – United States

#4025: Myojo Nagasaki Champon Creamy Tonkotsu - United States

Well, I’ve come to the end of the fresh varieties from Myojo USA which is a bummer because they’ve all been quite good. This one is kind of like a seafood tonkotsu and I’m really curious how it will be. Let’s give it a go! ...see full post

#4021: Myojo Yakisoba Original Sauce – United States

#4021: Myojo Yakisoba Original Sauce - United States

I have this and one more fresh variety that I need to cook up of these great Myojo USA refrigerated varieties – they’ve been extremely good! My wife has been a fan of yakisoba for a long time as have I, but my daughter could be heard while I was finishing up the reviews that day I tried the savory miso version. ‘Mama, can I have another bite?’ She’s definitely one for repetitiveness, and like a happy broken record, I want to say I heard her say it a good couple dozen times. Curious how they’ll like this one – I think they will! ...see full post

#4020: Vite Ramen Grilled Ribeye Beef v1.2 – United States

#4020: Vite Ramen Grilled Ribeye Beef v1.2 - United States

Well, didn’t I just hit one of those big numbers a few weeks ago? Well, much earlier than I hit my 4000th review, the video at the bottom of this one got published. See, my episodes of Instant Noodle Recipe Time come out sooner that the posts they’re for. It’s nice having things staggered a bit to be honest. Well, the epiosde at the bottom of this review is my 1200th episode of Instant Noodle Recipe Time! A couple interesting things about this episode are the fact that I’m sure the kitchen will be incredibly hot – tomorrow (I get the posts ready for the review the night before) is probably going to be the last ultra hot day of the summer (if we’re lucky. Today it got up to 93F here if not hotter. It’s also kind of humid. We also have a lot of smoke from forest fires. So, I’ll be slaving away in a hot kitchen tomorrow – I wouldn’t have it any other way.  Thank you for watching the show. ...see full post

#4018: Myojo Okinawa Soba Light Bonito Flavor – United States

#4018: Myojo Okinawa Soba Light Bonito Flavor - United States

Another one of the fresh varieties sent directly by Myojo USA – thank you very much! I was curious about what I saw on the package insofar as how to garnish it. Looks to be pork belly and rice cake from what I’m reading – the fish cake is fried. Hmmm… I do have some kamaboko I could fry. Yeah – I’ll try that. Let’s check this one out! ...see full post

#4017: Aces Sriracha Ramen Noodle Soup – Lobster – United States

#4017: Aces Sriracha Ramen Noodle Soup - Lobster - United States

I recently got  couple more varieties from Aces of their Sriracha Ramen Noodle Soup range – this lobster and an extra spicy! First, the lobster. Let’s check it out! ...see full post

#4016: Assi Hot & Spicy Rice Noodle Soup Bowl – United States

#4016: Assi Hot & Spicy Rice Noodle Soup Bowl - United States

Here’s one that came via Exotic Noods – check ’em out and use coupon code THERAMENRATER for a discount! ...see full post

#4015: Vite Ramen Roasted Soy Sauce Chicken v1.2 – United States

#4015: Vite Ramen Roasted Soy Sauce Chicken v1.2 - United States

Another one from the guys in California. You don’t often see revision numbers on food products, but these guys put them on there. To me, it shows they’re always striving to improve on products and upgrade them when possible. Pretty cool! Let’s give this new version a try! ...see full post

#4013: Myojo Yakisoba Savory Miso Sauce – United States

#4013: Myojo Yakisoba Savory Miso Sauce - United States

Saw there was some neat new things going on over at Myojo USA so I contacted my friend Taku-san and he sent some great fresh varieties! I’ve had a ton of different yakisoba varieties but never have I seen a miso flavored one. Let’s give it a try! ...see full post

Exotic Noods Subscription Box – November 2021

Exotic Noods Subscription Box - November 2021

Are you a slacker? Can’t think of getting your friends and family for the holidays? Well, this might save you from wanton regret and inaction that may cost you dearly… Check it out! It’s Exotic Noods! A box every month of absolutely awesome noodles from around the world! Use the coupon code THERAMENRATER  for a discount! ...see full post

#4007: Muso Organic Ramen Miso – United States

#4007: Muso Organic Ramen Miso - United States

Here’s one I found at the local grocery store. The shoyu I tried previously wasn’t bad, so hopefully the miso will be good and not a boatload of red miso. Warning  – there will be corn in this. If you’re not afraid of corn, smooth seas ahead. But if corn freaks out your tender sensibilities, turn back! ...see full post

Top Ten American Instant Noodles Of All Time 2022 Edition

The Ramen Rater's Top Ten American Instant Noodles OF All Time 2022 Edition

Formerly the Made In The USA list, The Ramen Rater’s Top Ten American Instant Noodles Of All Time still is comprised only of varieties manufactured in the United States. This year’s list is comprised of all the best varieties from the United States in my reviews up to number 3,950. These varieties are mostly easily found as they’re not imports. Lots of great stuff to try here as well as links to find it on Amazon. I’ve also included some announcements at the bottom so make sure to check those out as well. With that, let’s check out The Ramen Rater’s Top Ten American Instant Noodles Of All Time 2022 Edition! ...see full post

#4004: Menraku Restaurant Style Ramen “Miso Tonkotsu” Taste – United States

#4004: Menraku Restaurant Style Ramen "Miso Tonkotsu" Taste - United States

Big thanks to Daniel at www.exoticnoods.com for sending this one over. There’s been a noodle drought lately! Very uncool, but people have been kind enough to help! Check out Exotic Noods and use coupon code THERAMENRATER for a discount! Let’s crack this one open and give it a try! ...see full post

Pumpkin Pie Made From 100% Nissin Cup Noodles Pumpkin Spice Flavor

Pumpkin Pie Made From 100% Nissin Cup Noodles Pumpkin Spice Flavor

I’ve never made a pie before. I know they make pie crusts you don’t have to make yourself. My mom used to get them and put pudding in them and they ended up really good. I thought I’d try my hand at making a pie, but of course it’s not going to be that. ...see full post

#4003: Vite Ramen Garlic Pork Tonkotsu v1.2 – United States

#4003: Vite Ramen Garlic Pork Tonkotsu v1.2 - United States

Vite Ramen is a fascinating phenomenon – instant noodles married to healthy ingredients. It’s pretty fascinating! What’s neat is they keep coming out with different versions of their products – always on a mission to improve. Well, let’s give this one a try! Don’t forget to look at the scan of the back of these below – it’s pretty impressive! ...see full post

#4001: Nissin Cup Noodles Pumpkin Spice Flavor – United States

The Ramen Rater’s Definitive Guide To Nissin Cup Noodles Pumpkin Spice Flavor

#4001: Nissin Cup Noodles Pumpkin Spice Flavor - United States

The reactions I’ve seen to this stuff range from curiosity to disgust. Personally, I find it to be something really awesome. You see, I spend a lot of time with instant noodles. A lot. When I see something like this, I see something that’s a shift. This really is a risky proposition, but the reward is high. Look at SPAM – they did pumpkin spice SPAM. Is it good? No clue – but I do have one my wife got me. This however is good and very easily obtained if you want to do the legwork. But not for long – this is only available at Walmart stores – specific ones – and so if you get on it quickly, you can enjoy some – or not. What’s nice is they’re only 88 cents apiece which is very reasonable, especially for a limited edition specialty item. Rest assured though – people will sell them for a great deal more on eBay once they disappear. ...see full post