Asian Instant Noodles Buying Guide: Find Your Ideal Bowl

Looking for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal? Asian instant noodles are the go-to solution for everyone from students to young professionals. But with an overwhelming number of options, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide is here to help you navigate the choices and find the perfect noodles, available in just a few clicks at your online Asian grocery store.

Our Tips for Choosing the Best Instant Noodles

Before we dive into our top picks, here are a few criteria to keep in mind to find the noodles that are right for you.

1. Flavour and Spice Level

Asia is a continent of a thousand and one flavours. Do you prefer a mild and comforting Asian noodle soup, a sweet and savoury stir-fry, or spicy noodles ready to set your taste buds on fire?

• Korea: Often associated with bold and complex flavours. Korean ramen, especially the famous Samyang Buldak noodles, is renowned for its devastating heat.
• Indonesia: Indonesia shines with its umami flavours, often built around sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and a unique blend of spices. Indomie noodles are its most famous representative.
• Thailand: Balance is the name of the game, with sweet, sour, citrusy, and spicy notes. Instant Pad Thai is a perfect example.

2. Noodle Type: It's All About Texture

The texture of the noodles themselves is a key factor. The most common are made from wheat flour, typical of ramen, offering a springy and satisfying chew. Others, like those used for Pad Thai, are rice-based, giving them a softer, lighter consistency. It all depends on the mouthfeel you're looking for.

3. Format: Bowl or Packet?

• The Bowl: Ideal for on-the-go consumption (at the office, while travelling). Just add hot water, wait a few minutes, and it's ready. The bonus: virtually no washing up!
• The Packet: More economical and often more eco-friendly, it's perfect for stocking up at home. It requires a quick cook on the stove or adding boiling water to your own bowl.

Recommended Asian Instant Noodles

Here are three gems that perfectly illustrate the richness of this world.

SAMYANG Buldak Hot Chicken Ramen Cheese

Why it stands out: This version combines the iconic heat of Buldak Korean ramen with the creamy smoothness of cheese. It's a bold pairing that has won over a huge audience. The sauce perfectly coats the thick, chewy noodles.

Key features:

• A surprising balance between the fire of the chilli and the richness of the cheese.
• Firm and pleasant wheat noodle texture.
• Convenient 70g bowl format for a quick solo meal on the go.

Who is it for? For thrill-seekers who aren't afraid of a little heat but appreciate a creamy touch to cool things down. A must-try for fans of the Korean cultural wave.

Indomie Noodle Chicken

Why it stands out:Indomie noodles are a true institution. This chicken version is an absolute classic: simple, comforting, and delicious. Its clear, fragrant broth makes it a reliable choice that's a universal crowd-pleaser.

Key features:

• A classic and well-executed chicken flavour.
• Extremely simple and quick to prepare.
• A universal, very mild taste suitable for all palates.

Who is it for? For those looking for a simple and comforting Asian noodle soup. It's the perfect choice for a quick, hassle-free meal, or as a neutral base to customise with vegetables or an egg.

MAMA Instant Pad Thai Noodles

Why it stands out: This product successfully captures the essence of the famous Thai street food dish in an instant format. MAMA's instant Pad Thai offers a complex blend of sweet, salty, and sour flavours, thanks in particular to the tamarind powder.

Key features:

• An authentic taste reminiscent of real Pad Thai.
• Rice noodles offer a change from traditional wheat noodles.
• A complete seasoning packet for a flavour-rich result.

Who is it for? For travellers craving the flavours of Thailand without spending hours in the kitchen. An excellent option for those who prefer sweet and sour dishes over soups.

Looking for Other Options?

Our selection is just a sneak peek. If you want to explore other flavours, formats, or spice levels, dozens of other products are waiting for you.

??Discover our full range of 70g noodles

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How can I level up my instant noodles? Nothing could be simpler! Garnish them with an egg (soft-boiled, fried, or scrambled), some fresh vegetables (spring onions, spinach, mushrooms), or leftover meat or tofu. A drizzle of sesame oil or soy sauce will add the perfect finishing touch.

2. What's the difference between Japanese ramen and Korean ramyun? Although the terms are similar, there are nuances. Korean ramyun, like Samyang Buldak noodles, are generally known for being spicier and offering bolder flavours (kimchi, cheese). Traditional Japanese ramen, on the other hand, focuses more on the complexity and subtlety of the broth (miso, shoyu, tonkotsu) and is often less spicy.

3. Where can I buy a wide variety of Asian instant noodles online? An online Asian grocery store like Joybuy is an excellent place to start. You'll find a curated selection of brands and flavours from all over Asia, delivered right to your door.

By the Joybuy editorial team