Quick Instant Noodle Dishes for Busy Days

22 Nov | 465 Views

Introduction
Exploring Instant Noodles
The Charm of Easy Noodle Dishes
Best Instant Chinese Noodles to Try
Elevating Instant Noodles: Recipes for Busy Days
Fusion Flavors: Experimenting with Different Types Of Noodle
Healthier Twists on Instant Noodle Recipes
Tips for Enhancing Instant Noodle Meals
Conclusion

1. Introduction

Do you love instant noodles but want to make them more exciting and delicious? Do you have a busy schedule and need quick and easy meal ideas? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this blog is for you!

In this blog, you will find the best instant noodle recipes that are quick and tasty. You will learn how to customize and enhance your instant noodles with different ingredients and sauces. You will also discover how to make your instant noodles more nutritious and satisfying by adding some protein, vegetables, and herbs.

Many people around the world consider instant noodles to be a basic cuisine. They are cheap, convenient, and versatile. However, they can also be boring, unhealthy, and bland if you just follow the instructions on the package. That’s why this blog will show you how to make the most of your instant noodles and enjoy a variety of flavors and textures.

Whether you are looking for a breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack, you will find a recipe that suits your taste and mood. From spicy to creamy, from Asian to Italian, from soup to salad, you will never run out of options. You will also find tips and tricks on how to cook your instant noodles faster, better, and easier.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your instant noodles and get ready to explore the world of quick and tasty recipes. You'll be shocked at how much you can make with only a packet of noodles. Let’s get started!

2. Exploring Instant Noodles

Instant noodles consist of precooked and dried noodles that can be rehydrated and cooked in boiling water, usually with a flavoring powder or seasoning oil. They are popular for their convenience, affordability, and variety of flavors and styles. Since its invention in 1958 by Momofuku Ando of Nissin Foods in Japan, instant noodles have become a global phenomenon, with billions of servings being consumed annually.

There are many different types of instant noodles available on the market, depending on the ingredients, shape, texture, and origin of the noodles.

Some of the most common types are:

Wheat flour and egg noodles: These are the most widely used types of instant noodles, made from wheat flour, water, salt, and sometimes eggs. They are usually yellow and have a chewy texture. They can be round or flat, thin or thick, and come in various lengths. Some examples of this type are NongShim Shin Black Noodle Soup, Top Ramen, and Maruchan.
Rice noodles:
These are made from rice flour and water and are usually white or translucent in color. They have a soft, slippery texture and are often gluten-free. They can be thin or wide and are commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisines. Some examples of this type are Koka Rice Noodles and Mama Rice Vermicelli.
Cantonese egg noodles: These are made from wheat flour, egg, and kansui (an alkaline solution that gives the noodles a yellow color and a springy texture). They are usually thin and curly and they are often fried to make them crispy. They are commonly used in Chinese cuisines, especially in stir-fries and soups. Some examples of this type are Indomie Mi Goreng and Sapporo Ichiban Chow Mein.
Soba noodles: These are made from buckwheat flour and water and are usually brown or gray. They have a nutty flavor and a firm texture and are often served cold with a dipping sauce. They are commonly used in Japanese cuisines and are considered a healthy option. Some examples of this type are Hakubaku Organic Soba Noodles and Nissin RAOH Soba.

These are just some of the many types of instant noodles that you can find on the market. Each type has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages and can be enjoyed in different ways. You can also customize your instant noodles by adding your ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, eggs, cheese, or sauces, to make them more nutritious and delicious. Instant noodles are not only a convenient food but also a culinary diversity that you can explore and experiment with.

3. The Charm of Easy Noodle Dishes

Quick noodle dishes are a great way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal in a short time, especially when you have a hectic schedule.

Some of the advantages of quick noodle recipes are:

They are easy to prepare: you only need to boil some water, add the noodles and the seasoning, and cook for a few minutes. You can also use a microwave, an electric kettle, or a hot pot to make them. You don’t need to chop, peel, or wash any ingredients unless you want to add some extras.
They are versatile: You can choose from a wide range of flavors and styles of instant noodles, such as spicy, creamy, sour, or savory. You can also mix and match different types of noodles, such as wheat, rice, or soba, to suit your preference. You can also add your ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, eggs, cheese, or sauces, to make them more nutritious and delicious.
They are affordable: You can buy instant noodles at a low price, and they have a long shelf life. You can stock up on them and store them in your pantry, cupboard, or backpack. You can also save money by using instant noodles as a base for other dishes, such as salads, casseroles, or stir-fries.
They are fun: You can experiment with different combinations of instant noodles and ingredients and create your own recipes. You can also try different cuisines that use instant noodles, such as Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai, or Indonesian. You can also share your creations with your friends and family or post them on social media.

Instant noodles are not only a convenient food but also a charm that you can explore and enjoy in various ways. They can help you save time, money, and energy while satisfying your taste buds and appetite. Instant noodles are a quick and easy solution for your busy lifestyle.

4. Best Instant Chinese Noodles to Try

Chinese instant noodles are a type of food that consists of precooked and dried noodles that can be rehydrated and cooked in boiling water, usually with a flavoring powder or seasoning oil. They are popular for their convenience, affordability, and variety of flavors and styles. Chinese instant noodles were inspired by Japanese ramen but have developed their own characteristics and innovations over time. Some of the best Chinese instant noodle brands and flavors are:

Wugudaochang Tomato Beef Brisket Flavor Purple Potato Noodle: This is the number one ranked Chinese instant noodle by The Ramen Rater. The noodles are made from purple potatoes, which give them a unique color and texture. The broth has a rich tomato and beef flavor, with a hint of spiciness. The noodles also come with a sachet of real beef brisket, which adds to the authenticity and heartiness of the dish.
NongShim Shin Black Noodle Soup: This is a premium version of NongShim’s popular Shin Ramyun noodles, and it contains an additional “sul-long-tang” (ox bone) seasoning packet. The milky bone broth imitation makes Shin Black's soup creamier and less spicy than the original Shin Ramyun. The noodles are thick and chewy, and the soup has a complex savory flavor with dehydrated vegetables and mushrooms. This is the favorite instant noodle of chef and cookbook author Roy Choi.
Prima Taste Singapore Laksa La Mian: This is a Singaporean-style noodle dish with a rich and creamy coconut curry broth. The noodles are thick and springy, and the broth has a complex and aromatic flavor with lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and other spices. The noodles also come with a sachet of sambal chili paste, which adds a kick of heat and flavor. This is the favorite instant noodle of chef and cookbook author Nguyenenen.
JML Spicy King Spicy Chicken Instant Noodle: This is a spicy, satisfying noodle dish with a Sichuan pepper flavor. The noodles are thin and flat, and the broth has a fiery red color and a numbing sensation. The noodles also come with a sachet of sesame seeds, which add a nutty crunch. This is the number-two-ranked Chinese instant noodle by The Ramen Rater.
Sichuan Baijia Chongqing Noodles Burning Dry Noodles: This is a dry noodle dish with a sauce made from soybean paste, chili oil, vinegar, and sugar. The noodles are wide and soft, and the sauce has a sweet, sour, and spicy flavor, with a strong Sichuan pepper taste. The noodles also come with a sachet of mustard greens, which add a crunchy and refreshing contrast. This is the number-five-ranked Chinese instant noodle by The Ramen Rater.

These are just some of the many types of Chinese instant noodles that you can try and enjoy. Each type has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages and can be customized by adding your ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, eggs, cheese, or sauces. Chinese instant noodles are not only a convenient food but also a delicious and diverse cuisine that you can explore and experiment with.

5. Elevating Instant Noodles: Recipes for Busy Days

Elevating instant noodles is a creative way to transform plain instant noodles into gourmet dishes that are quick and easy to make. Instant noodles are a convenient and affordable food that can be customized by adding different ingredients, sauces, and spices.

Here are some recipes that use instant noodles as a base ingredient and elevate them to a new level of deliciousness:

Cheesy Garlic Butter Noodles: This recipe is a creamy and cheesy dish that is perfect for cheese lovers. It uses instant noodles, butter, garlic, cheese, milk, and parsley. The steps are simple: cook the noodles according to the package directions, drain, and set aside. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat and add the garlic. Cook, stirring periodically, for approximately a minute, until aromatic. Add the cheese and milk and stir until smooth and bubbly. Add the noodles and toss to coat. Sprinkle with parsley and enjoy.
Thai Peanut Noodles: Thai food is the source of inspiration for this recipe, which is nutty and spicy. It uses instant noodles, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, green onions, cilantro, and peanuts. The steps are easy: cook the noodles according to the package directions, drain, and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and chili garlic sauce until smooth. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat and add the green onions. Cook for about two minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft. Add the noodles and the peanut sauce and toss to combine. Garnish with cilantro and peanuts and enjoy.

Instant Noodle Pizza: This recipe is a fun and quirky dish that is ideal for pizza lovers. It uses instant noodles, eggs, cheese, pizza sauce, and toppings of your choice. The steps are fun: cook the noodles according to the package directions, drain, and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs and cheese. Add the noodles and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and press it evenly to form a crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15 minutes or until golden and firm. Spread the pizza sauce over the crust and top with your favorite toppings. Bake for 10 minutes more, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Cut into slices and enjoy.

6. Fusion Flavors: Experimenting with Different Types Of Noodle Fusion Flavors: Experimenting with Different Types Of Noodle

Noodles are one of the most versatile and delicious ingredients in the world. They come in various shapes, sizes, textures, and flavors and can be used to create dishes that reflect different cuisines and cultures. Fusion noodle dishes are recipes that combine elements from more than one culinary tradition, creating new and exciting flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates.

Here are some tips and examples of how to experiment with different noodle types and create your own fusion noodle dishes.

Explore the diversity of noodles. There are many types of noodles to choose from, such as wheat, rice, egg, buckwheat, bean, and potato noodles. Each type has its own characteristics, such as thickness, chewiness, color, and taste. You can experiment with different noodle types and see how they pair with different sauces, soups, and toppings. For example, you can try using ramen noodles instead of pasta for a creamy carbonara or soba noodles instead of rice noodles for a spicy pad Thai. You can also mix and match different noodle types in the same dish, such as using udon and vermicelli for a hearty noodle soup.

Enhance the flavor of the noodles. Noodles can be bland on their own, so it is important to add flavor to them. You can do this by cooking them in broth, adding seasonings, or tossing them with sauce. You can also experiment with different sauces and condiments from different cuisines, such as hoisin, teriyaki, pesto, curry, or salsa. You can also add aromatics, such as garlic, ginger, onion, or lemongrass, to infuse more flavor into the noodles. For example, you can make a fusion noodle salad by tossing cooked noodles with sesame oil, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, and chili flakes and adding fresh herbs, nuts, and fruits.

Balance the nutrition of the noodles. Noodles are high in carbohydrates but low in protein, fiber, and vitamins. To make your noodle dishes more balanced and nutritious, you can add vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats. You can also choose whole-grain or gluten-free noodles, which have more fiber and nutrients than refined noodles. You can also experiment with different combinations of vegetables, protein, and fats from different cuisines, such as adding tofu, edamame, and seaweed for a Japanese-inspired noodle bowl or adding chicken, cheese, and avocado for a Mexican-inspired noodle burrito.

Be creative and have fun. The best part of experimenting with fusion noodle dishes is that there are no rules or limits. You can use your imagination and creativity to create unique recipes that suit your taste and preferences. You can also get inspiration from other sources, such as cookbooks, magazines, blogs, or restaurants. You can also ask your friends and family for their opinions and suggestions, or invite them to join you in your noodle adventures. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and the results of your fusion noodle experiments.

7. Healthier Twists on Instant Noodle Recipes

Instant noodles are a convenient and cheap food option, but they are often high in sodium, fat, and preservatives and low in fiber, protein, and vitamins. However, there are some ways to make instant noodle recipes healthier and more nutritious without compromising on taste or satisfaction. Here are some tips and examples of how to incorporate fresh ingredients for nutritional value in detail.

Add vegetables. Vegetables are a great way to add color, texture, flavor, and nutrients to your instant noodle dishes. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables, depending on what you have on hand and what you prefer. You can also use different types of vegetables, such as leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, root vegetables, or mushrooms, to create variety and contrast. Some examples of vegetable additions are

Spinach, carrot, and corn for a Thai chicken noodle soup
Green capsicum, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and mushroom for Chinese pork with crispy noodles and yellow bean sauce.
Broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini for a chicken and veggie tortellini casserole

Add protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, bones, and tissues and for keeping you full and satisfied. You can use different sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, pork, tofu, eggs, or beans, to suit your dietary preferences and needs. You can also use lean cuts of meat or drain and rinse canned beans to reduce the fat and sodium content. Some examples of protein additions are:

Turkey for a [Mr. Lee’s cracking katsu].
Lamb for a [Dan Dan noodle soup].
Tofu for an Asian chicken noodle soup

Add healthy fats. Healthy fats are important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails and for supporting brain and heart health. You can use different sources of healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, avocado, olive oil, or coconut milk, to add creaminess, richness, and flavor to your instant noodle dishes. You can also use moderate amounts of cheese, butter, or cream to balance the taste and texture. Some examples of healthy fat additions are:

Avocado for a [avocado pesto zucchini noodle bowl].
Coconut milk for a [coconut curry noodle soup]
Cheese for a [cheesy chicken and broccoli ramen casserole]

Add herbs and spices. Herbs and spices are a simple and effective way to enhance the flavor and aroma of your instant noodle dishes without adding extra salt, sugar, or calories. You can use different herbs and spices, such as basil, cilantro, parsley, oregano, thyme, rosemary, ginger, garlic, onion, chili, curry, turmeric, or paprika, to create different flavor profiles and cuisines. You can also use fresh or dried herbs and spices, depending on what you have available and what you like. Some examples of herb and spice additions are:

Basil and oregano for a [tomato basil chicken and zucchini noodle skillet].
Cilantro and curry for a [curried chicken and vegetable noodle stir-fry]
Ginger and garlic for [healthy sesame ginger instant noodle cups].

By following these tips and examples, you can transform your instant noodle recipes into healthier and more delicious meals that will nourish your body and soul. Enjoy!

8. Tips for Enhancing Instant Noodle Meals

Instant noodles are a quick and easy meal option, but they can also be bland. However, with some simple garnishing and seasoning hacks, you can elevate the flavor profiles and presentation of your instant noodle dishes.

Here are some tips for turning simple noodle dishes into appealing meals in detail.

Garnishing: Adding some fresh or dried garnishes can make a big difference in the appearance and taste of your instant noodle dishes. They can add color, texture, freshness, and aroma to your bowl. Some examples of garnishes are

Scallions, cilantro, parsley, or mint for a burst of green and herbal flavor
Sesame seeds, peanuts, cashews, or almonds for a crunchy and nutty touch
Lime wedges, lemon slices, or orange zest for a citrusy and acidic accent
Fried shallots, garlic chips, or crispy bacon bits for a savory and crispy finish
Seaweed flakes, bonito flakes, or furikake for a salty and umami boost

Seasoning: Quickly upgrade the flavor of any bowl of ramen by stirring in some sauces, pastes, powders, or liquids that can add depth, complexity, and richness to your broth. You can also adjust the amount of salt, sugar, or vinegar to balance the taste. Some examples of seasonings are

Miso paste, chili bean sauce, Thai curry paste, Japanese curry powder, or fish sauce for a savory and spicy kick
Coconut milk, peanut butter, cheese, or cream for a creamy and smooth texture.
Soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or tamarind sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor
Ginger, garlic, onion, lemongrass, or chili for a fragrant and pungent aroma.
Vinegar, lime juice, lemon juice, or apple cider vinegar for a sour and refreshing note

Presentation: The way you arrange and serve your instant noodle dishes can also make them more appetizing and inviting. You can use some simple tricks to make your bowl look more professional and elegant. Some examples of presentation tips are:

Use a large and deep bowl to hold the noodles and broth and leave some space at the top for the garnishes.
Use chopsticks or a fork to twirl the noodles and place them in the center of the bowl, creating a mound of noodles.
Use a spoon or a ladle to pour the broth around the noodles, leaving some of the noodles exposed.
Use a knife or a mandoline to slice or shred the vegetables and protein, and arrange them on top of the noodles, creating a contrast of colors and shapes.
Use a small plate or a bowl to serve the garnishes, sauces, and condiments separately, and let the eater customize their bowl.

By following these tips, you can enhance your instant noodle meals and make them more delicious and satisfying. Enjoy!

9. Conclusion

Instant noodles are a staple food for many people around the world, especially for those who are busy, on a budget, or just looking for a quick and easy meal. However, instant noodles can also be boring and unhealthy if eaten plain or with packaged seasoning. Fortunately, there are many ways to enhance instant noodle recipes and make them more flavorful, nutritious, and appealing. By adding fresh ingredients, such as vegetables, protein, and healthy fats, you can boost the nutritional value and variety of your noodle dishes. By adding herbs and spices, sauces, and condiments, you can elevate the flavor and aroma of your noodle dishes. By adding garnishes, such as nuts, seeds, citrus, or crispy toppings, you can add color, texture, and freshness to your noodle dishes. By following some simple presentation tips, such as using a large bowl, twirling the noodles, and arranging the toppings, you can make your noodle dishes look more appetizing and inviting.

Instant noodle recipes are not only convenient and versatile, but also fun and creative. You can explore and experiment with different noodle types, cuisines, and combinations and create your own unique and delicious noodle dishes. You can also get inspiration from other sources, such as cookbooks, blogs, or restaurants, or ask your friends and family for their opinions and suggestions. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and the results of your instant noodle experiments. Bon appétit!