Instant ramen is a college staple, but it doesn’t have to taste like it! With a few simple ingredients, you can turn cheap ramen noodles into a restaurant-worthy dish—without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ 10 easy ramen upgrades (using pantry staples)
✅ What is 🍥 (narutomaki) in ramen?
✅ Healthy vs. unhealthy ramen habits
✅ FAQs about instant ramen
Let’s turn your sad little packet into a flavor-packed masterpiece! 🍜
10 Easy Ways to Upgrade Cheap Ramen
1. The Creamy Egg Drop Ramen
- Add: 1 beaten egg + 1 tbsp butter + splash of milk
- Method: Stir in beaten egg at the end for silky ribbons.
2. Spicy Peanut Butter Ramen
- Add: 1 tbsp peanut butter + 1 tsp sriracha + lime juice
- Tastes like: Cheap pad Thai!
3. Garlic Butter Mushroom Ramen
- Add: Sautéed mushrooms + 2 cloves minced garlic + 1 tbsp butter
- Bonus: Top with green onions.
4. Kimchi & Tofu Ramen
- Add: ½ cup kimchi + cubed tofu + sesame oil
- Fermented kick: Boosts gut health!
5. Cheesy Chili Ramen
- Add: Shredded cheddar + canned chili + jalapeños
- Ultimate comfort food.
6. Coconut Curry Ramen
- Add: ½ cup coconut milk + 1 tsp curry powder
- Creamy & fragrant.
7. Miso & Veggie Ramen
- Add: 1 tbsp miso paste + frozen veggies
- Umami bomb!
8. Sesame Soy Ramen
- Add: 1 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tsp sesame oil + sesame seeds
- Simple but delicious.
9. Breakfast Ramen (Yes, Really!)
- Add: Fried egg + bacon bits + shredded cheese
- Ramen for breakfast? Why not!
10. Seafood Ramen Hack
- Add: Canned tuna or shrimp + nori strips
- Instant seafood ramen.
Pro Tip: Replace the seasoning packet with low-sodium broth for a healthier base.
What Is 🍥 (Narutomaki) in Ramen?
That pink-swirled white fish cake you see in ramen is called narutomaki (🍥).
- Made from: Pureed fish (usually pollock)
- Texture: Bouncy and slightly sweet
- Where to buy: Asian grocery stores or online
Fun Fact: It’s named after Japan’s Naruto whirlpools, which the swirl resembles!
Is Eating 3 Packs of Ramen a Day Bad?
While cheap ramen is convenient, eating it daily has downsides:
✔ High sodium (1 pack = ~1,500mg+ of sodium)
✔ Low in protein & fiber (can leave you hungry)
✔ Processed ingredients (MSG, preservatives)
Healthier Alternatives:
- Use half the seasoning packet + add herbs/spices.
- Toss in veggies & protein (egg, chicken, tofu).
- Choose low-sodium or air-dried ramen brands.
People Also Ask
1. How to Upgrade Cheap Ramen?
Add eggs, veggies, protein, or sauces (soy, peanut butter, miso).
2. What Is 🍥 in Ramen?
It’s narutomaki, a fish cake with a pink swirl.
3. What Can I Add to Cheap Ramen?
Try eggs, kimchi, mushrooms, cheese, or coconut milk.
4. Is Eating 3 Packs of Ramen a Day Bad?
Yes—too much sodium & low nutrition. Limit to 1-2x/week.
Final Tip: Make It Balanced
Ramen is fine occasionally—just bulk it up with nutrients!
Try This Tonight:
- Cook ramen, drain water.
- Stir-fry with veggies + soy sauce + egg.
- Top with sriracha & sesame seeds.
Boom—gourmet ramen in minutes! 🍜🔥