When it comes to instant noodles, there’s no one who’s more passionate about it than Hans Lienesch. He’s an instant noodle connoisseur who takes this convenient food very seriously. In fact, he’s known as the famous Ramen Rater!
Source: the ramen rater
Every year, he’d review hundreds of varieties of instant noodles and come up with a top 10 ranking.
“All of these (instant noodles) are reviewed the same way. I follow instructions to the letter and taste each variety before I add any external garnish,” Lienesch said.
This year, he reviewed 383 different varieties of instant noodles from all around the world and came up with the ‘Top 10 Instant Noodles Of All Time 2018 Edition’ ranking. Surprisingly, our very own Malaysian brands dominated four spots in this exclusive ranking! Check out the 4 brands below, in ascending order:
#6: Red Chef Green Tom Yum Soup Noodles
Source: the ramen rater
Traditionally, no one would bat an eye on tom yum instant noodles, because we know the spices won’t have much of a kick, but this one seems to be working for Lienesch’s taste buds.
“This one has noodles that plump up nicely. The broth is strong and kind of reminds me of a cross between a Malaysian tom yum crossed with green curry spiciness. It works very well and is very tasty,” Lienesch said.
#4: CarJEN Nyonya Curry Laksa
Source: the ramen rater
Laksa by itself is already an amazing dish, so when you give it a Nyonya twist, the dish can turn into something ridiculously delicious. Here’s how Lienesch described the Nyonya dish.
“A noodle with a great gauge and chew sets the scene. Finally, a broth with a nice rich and creamy flavor augmented by coconut milk powder and a special ‘dipping sauce’ that has a sweet and spicy shrimp hit just makes everything so good.”
#3: MyKuali Penang White Curry Noodle (2018 Recipe)
Source: the ramen rater
This Penang white curry mee needs no introduction because is shot to fame worldwide just a couple of years ago. In fact, Lienesch himself ranked this noodle number 2 in the 2015 ranking! #PenangPride
“The noodle plumps up very well as with all MyKuali varieties – and then the broth. A big sachet of curry paste sets the stage along with creamer and seasoning. The end result is an incredibly strong and spicy curry that is all in unique and mesmerizing,” he said.
#2: Red Chef Sakura Prawn Soup Noodles
Source: the ramen rater
We’ve eaten our fair share of instant noodles over the years but we’ve never really come across this brand. Is it just us or you guys feel the same too?
Apparently, this brand is a newcomer to the list but it’s definitely a dark horse as it brought a pretty strong game to the table. Judging from Lienesch’s description, it’s safe to say that he was impressed!
“The great gauge and gauge to the noodle, and then the broth just takes over. A sweet and extremely strong prawn flavour. A good level of spiciness is here as well and works with the broth rather than overwhelms it. The broth is thick and oiliness is on-point. Rounding things out is a sachet of fried onions – good sized ones that add a very agreeable crunch on top.”
In case you’re wondering which brand took the crown, it’s the Prima Taste Singapore Wholegrain Laksa La Mian. This instant noodle variant must be really good because it has remained the champion for three consecutive years!
Source: the ramen rater
Now, we really need to try this instant noodle.
Want to know which other brands made it to the list? Here’s the full list of the top 10 instant noodles in 2018:
1. Prima Taste Singapore Wholegrain Laksa La Mian — Singapore
2. Red Chef Sakura Prawn Soup Noodles – Malaysia
3. MyKuali Penang White Curry Noodle (2018 Recipe) – Malaysia
4. CarJEN Nyonya Curry Laksa – Malaysia
5. Prima Taste Singapore Curry Wholegrain La Mian – Singapore
6. Red Chef Green Tom Yum Soup Noodles – Malaysia
7. Mom’s Dry Noodle Dan Dan Noodle – Taiwan
8. TTL White Wine Carbonara Noodle – Taiwan
9. Nissin Demae Ramen Straight Noodle Spicy Tonkotsu Flavour – Hong Kong
10. Gookmul Knight Of Ribs – South Korea
You can read the full description of these instant noodles here.
In your opinion, what is the best tasting instant noodles you’ve ever tried? Share with us in the comment section!
Also read: 5 Next-Level Instant Noodles That Malaysians NEED to Try
