Plus the ramen to buy – and how to give it a speedy flavour boost. Once considered an unhealthy student staple, instant noodles have, thanks to a rise in TikTokers sharing their culinary creations, undergone a truly glamorous makeover. No longer deemed the post-pub last resort, speedy packet ramen is increasingly being used as the foundation for delicious, quick and satisfying meals, attracting new audiences along the way.
British supermarket Waitrose has reported a significant rise in sales for all noodles, including an incredible 337% increase for best-selling Itsu Udon Noodles, compared to the same time last year. The appeal of instant noodles is manifold. London-based Korean food writer Su Scott, author of Korean street food cookbook Pocha , says: “I honestly can’t think of a better impromptu slurp than instant noodles.
Not only are they cheap and fast, for me, and for most Koreans, a packet of ramyeon is an ultimate home comfort that hugs the soul in an instant.” Know your noodles.