Instant noodles aren’t just for late-night cravings anymore. As the “pimped-up” ramen trend sweeps TikTok and foodie circles, people are transforming humble noodle packets into restaurant-worthy bowls in minutes.
Think creamy sauces, bold toppings and global flavours — all for a fraction of the price of eating out. Here are three quick recipes to inspire your next at-home upgrade.
1. Chilli-Garlic Sesame Ramen
You’ll need:
1 pack instant noodles (use seasoning sparingly), 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp rice vinegar, 1–2 tsp chilli crisp or chilli oil, 1 grated garlic clove.
Method:
Cook noodles according to packet instructions. In a bowl mix soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, chilli oil and garlic. Toss hot noodles through the sauce, then top with sliced spring onion, sesame seeds and a jammy boiled egg.
2. Creamy Miso Carbonara Noodles
You’ll need:
1 pack instant noodles, 1 egg yolk, 1 tsp white miso paste, 1 tbsp grated Parmesan or Pecorino, crispy pancetta or sautéed mushrooms, black pepper.
Method:
Cook noodles, reserving a splash of the cooking water. In a bowl whisk egg yolk, miso and cheese. Add noodles with a little hot water and toss until creamy. Top with pancetta or mushrooms and a grind of black pepper.
3. Peanut-Lime Satay Noodle Bowl
You’ll need:
1 pack instant noodles, 2 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tbsp soy sauce, juice of ½ lime, 1 tsp honey, splash of hot water, shredded rotisserie chicken or tofu, chopped peanuts, fresh coriander.
Method:
Cook noodles and drain. In a small pan mix peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey and hot water until smooth. Toss noodles in the sauce and top with chicken or tofu, chopped peanuts and fresh coriander.
Outro
Fast, fun and full of flavour, these “pimped-up” instant noodles prove you don’t need a huge budget or hours in the kitchen to eat something exciting. With just a few pantry staples, your quick-fix meal can become a mid-week hero dish — and totally Instagram-worthy.
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