Are you a fan of instant noodles? If so, you might find yourself intrigued by the concept of 'healthy ramen.'
While instant noodles are often deemed a convenience food with limited nutritional value upon closer examination, the truth is they might not be the healthiest option. Nevertheless, it's worth noting that much like certain so-called junk foods, instant noodles possess an appealing taste. Personally, I occasionally yearn for the fiery and piquant flavors of Korean instant noodles.
Korean ramen, also known as ramyeon (라면) or ramyun, is an instant noodle variety that originated from Japan but has been adapted to suit Korean tastes. It is a convenient and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed anytime, and anywhere. Made from wheat flour, these noodles are pre-cooked and dried, allowing for quick preparation by boiling them in water.
Korean ramen comes with an array of seasonings and soup bases, including spicy, seafood, kimchi, cheese, and more. Among the popular brands of Korean ramen are Nongshim, Samyang, Ottogi, and Paldo. You can readily find these products in the Asian food aisle of supermarkets such as Woolworths or Coles in Sydney.
How to Have a Healthy Ramen
While instant noodles aren't really healthy, if you find yourself craving them occasionally, like I do, here are some tips to make them slightly healthier and help alleviate any lingering quilt.
Tips for Cooking Healthy Ramen
Start by boiling water and placing the noodles in it for one minute. After that, discard the water. You'll notice that the water becomes a bit cloudy due to the oils from the noodles. Rinse the noodles thoroughly and then add hot water again. Using a kettle can make this step even more convenient, as the hot water can be prepared instantly.
2. Incorporate a variety of vegetables.
In my case, I found half an onion, some cabbage, and spring onions in the fridge, so I added them along with the soup base.
3. Consider adding a source of protein; an egg is an excellent choice for this purpose.
Alongside those tips, consider the following additional ideas:
Savor the Noodles, Skip the Soup:
While you enjoy the noodles, it's not necessary to consume all the soup. The soup base often contains a significant amount of MSG.
Balancing with Freshness: After having instant noodles for a meal, make a point to include plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits in your next two or three meals.
This practice allows your body the time it needs to detoxify and readjust.
In recent times, I've become increasingly mindful of my dietary choices due to my understanding of how food significantly influences both physical and mental well-being.
However, it's important to avoid becoming overly rigid in dietary habits to prevent additional stress, as that would defeat the purpose. Striking a balance is crucial!
I trust that you'll find the aforementioned tips beneficial, allowing you to savor your ramen with peace of mind!
