The Unexpected Power of Shin Ramen at Dawn

I used to think instant ramen was only good for late-night junk food, a guilty pleasure after too many beers. But this morning, I cracked open a packet just as the sun was creeping in, and everything changed. The smell hit me first—nutty, onion-y, with a quick flash of garlic that lingers even after you’ve taken the first slurp. I wasn’t hungry, actually. Just curious how this tiny brick of noodles could make my kitchen smell like a Sunday morning in Seoul’s markets. The broth feels different when you’re not trying to scarf it down before work. It’s like a little ritual—boiling, smelling, tasting—talking back at your day before it even begins. It’s not just comfort. It’s a quiet, wry reminder that sometimes, the simplest things can slow you down in the best way, especially when you think you’ve seen everything about this cup of noodles.

Gourmet Instant Ramen

This dish involves cooking instant ramen noodles in a flavorful broth enhanced with aromatic ingredients. The noodles are boiled until tender and combined with a savory, well-seasoned broth, resulting in a dish with a slightly chewy texture and a richly flavored liquid appearance.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 minutes mins

Total Time 12 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Korean

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 packet instant ramen noodles preferably seasoned for more flavor
• 2 cups water for boiling noodles and broth
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce for seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil adds aroma and richness
• Optional green onions sliced for garnish

Equipment

• Pot
• Ladle

Method

 

1. Fill a pot with 2 cups of water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat, watching for vigorous bubbling and steam rising.
   
2. Meanwhile, peel and finely mince the garlic, preparing it for the broth to infuse its aroma during cooking.
   1 packet instant ramen noodles
   
3. Add the minced garlic to the boiling water, stirring briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds, releasing aroma into the water.
   1 packet instant ramen noodles
   
4. Place the ramen noodle block into the boiling water, gently submerging it with a spoon or chopsticks, and cook for 3 minutes until the noodles are tender and slightly chewy.
   1 packet instant ramen noodles
   
5. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil, allowing the broth to simmer for an additional 2 minutes, watching for the mixture to turn slightly darker and develop a savory aroma.
   1 packet instant ramen noodles
   
6. Use a ladle to transfer the noodles and broth into a bowl, garnish with sliced green onions if desired, and serve hot with visible broth and noodles arranged invitingly.
   1 packet instant ramen noodles
   

Notes

Adjust seasoning to taste. For added richness, include a soft-boiled egg or sautéed vegetables.

Who knew that a cheap packet could teach me how to pause? It’s not just about the flavor. It’s about the little moments. Maybe the next time I’m rushing or feeling too wired, I’ll reach for this again. Or maybe I’ll try to beat its little secret—there’s a surprisingly tender chew to these noodles when you take your time. Like all good things, it’s about more than just eating. It’s the quiet, unexpected pause. And I’d be lying if I said I didn’t like the idea of that.