Buying Asian Instant Noodles: Our Recommendations for 2026

The Asian instant noodle aisle can be overwhelming. The packaging promises authentic flavours, but the sheer number of options is vast. Will you pick one that's too spicy, or one that lacks the promised depth of flavour? It's easy to make the wrong choice. This guide will help you make an informed decision based on product features, ensuring you find exactly what you're looking for in a quick, flavourful meal.

What to look for when choosing instant noodles?

Before making a choice, it's helpful to understand a few basic characteristics. This will help you better interpret the specifications on the packaging.

• Meal Type: The most common variety is a noodle soup (ramyun). You cook the noodles in water and then add the seasoning mix to create a broth. Another popular type is 'dry' noodles, such as Indomie Mi Goreng. For these, you drain the cooking water and mix the noodles with a sauce and seasoning packet.
• Flavour Profile: The flavours vary widely, from the deep, savoury umami of Korean broths to the sweet and spicy combination of Indonesian dishes. Check the ingredient list for indicators like soy sauce, chilli, black bean paste, or garlic.
• Spiciness: The term 'spicy' is subjective and varies by brand and country of origin. Korean spicy noodles are known for their intense heat, while other varieties have a milder spice level. Products without a chilli icon or mention of pepper are generally mild.
• Preparation Time: Most instant noodles are designed for convenience and are ready in 3 to 5 minutes. This makes them a practical option for a quick meal during a study or workday.
• Ingredients and Allergens: Always check the allergen information on the packaging. Common allergens in instant noodles include wheat (gluten), soy, shellfish, fish, and sesame.

Our Selection for 2026

Based on the criteria above, we have selected three popular and distinctive products. These recommendations are based on their specific product features and flavour profiles.

1. Nongshim Korean Instant Noodles Shin Ramyun - 120 g

• Why this product Nongshim Shin Ramyun is one of the most recognisable examples of Korean ramyun. The product is known for its deep, savoury beef broth and a robust spiciness characteristic of Korean cuisine. The combination of chilli pepper, onion, garlic, and mushroom creates a complex and layered flavour.

• Benefits

  • Flavour: Rich and spicy broth with a distinct umami taste.
  • Noodles: The noodles are thicker and chewier than many other instant varieties, helping them retain a good bite after cooking.
  • Preparation: Ready in 4.5 minutes, according to the manufacturer.

• Who is this for? This product is ideal for lovers of spicy noodles and authentic Korean flavour. If you're looking for a warming and powerful soup meal, Shin Ramyun is a solid choice. Less suitable for those who do not enjoy spicy food.

2. Indomie Mi Goreng Instant Noodles Original - 80g (5-pack)

• Why this product Indomie Mi Goreng is a classic from Indonesia and offers a completely different experience from noodle soups. It is a 'dry' noodle dish, inspired by traditional Indonesian fried noodles. The package contains five separate seasonings: seasoning powder, seasoning oil with onion, sweet soy sauce (ketjap manis), chilli sauce, and fried onions for texture.

• Benefits

  • Flavour Profile: A unique balance of sweet, salty, savoury, and a mild spiciness.
  • Texture: The combination of soft noodles and crispy fried onions provides a pleasant mouthfeel.
  • Customisation: The base is excellent for adding extras like a fried egg, chicken, or fresh vegetables.

• Who is this for? Perfect for those who want something different from soup. Its sweet and savoury flavour makes it accessible to a wide audience. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a very quick meal that you can easily enhance.

3. NongShim Chapaghetti - 140g

• Why this product Chapaghetti is Nongshim's instant version of the popular Korean-Chinese dish Jajangmyeon. Instead of a spicy broth, these thick noodles are mixed with a savoury, dark black bean sauce. The result is a mild, umami-rich, and slightly sweet dish.

• Benefits

  • Mild Flavour: This product is not spicy, making it a safe choice for everyone, including children or those sensitive to hot flavours.
  • Unique Profile: The black bean sauce flavour is distinctive and a nice change of pace from more common tastes.
  • Pro Tip: In South Korea, Chapaghetti is often mixed with a spicy noodle (like Shin Ramyun) to create a dish called "Chapaguri".

• Who is this for? An excellent starting point for those who want to explore the world of Korean ramyun without diving straight into the spicy options. It's also a great choice for anyone looking for a savoury, yet mild and filling meal.

Didn't find what you were looking for?

These three products represent just a fraction of the available flavours. The world of Asian noodles is rich and diverse, with countless varieties from Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, and more. Are you looking for a specific flavour, a vegetarian option, or do you simply want to explore further?

Browse our full range for more choices.

-> Discover all options in the Pasta and Noodles category

Frequently Asked Questions about Asian Instant Noodles

1. What is the difference between Japanese ramen and Korean ramyun? Although the terms sound similar, ramen typically refers to the fresh, artisanal Japanese noodle dish served in restaurants. Ramyun is the Korean term and is almost always used for instant noodles. Korean ramyun is often known for its spicier and more robust flavour profiles.

2. How can I make my instant noodles more nutritious? You can easily upgrade a simple bowl of instant noodles. For example, add a soft-boiled or fried egg for extra protein. Fresh or frozen vegetables like bok choy, spinach, corn, or bean sprouts add vitamins and texture. Leftover chicken, beef, or tofu are also great additions. Garnish with spring onions or sesame seeds for a complete meal.

3. Are all Asian instant noodles very spicy? No, definitely not. While popular varieties like Shin Ramyun are known for their heat, there are countless mild options. The Nongshim Chapaghetti with black bean sauce is a good example of a completely non-spicy noodle. Many Japanese varieties with a miso or soy sauce base (shoyu) are also mild and savoury.

Recommendations by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer