I started this experiment based on misinformation. Supposedly, according to my well-meaning friends, ramen is only unhealthy because of the included flavor packet. Because the flavor packet looks as though it’s made entirely of salt and suspicious chicken dust, this seemed logical. So, I assumed, if you removed the flavor packet and mixed just the noodles with real food, then voila: You would have healthy ramen.
It turns out healthy ramen doesn’t exist. At least, not if you are eating the instant stuff; ramen enthusiasts are at a higher risk of cardiometabolic syndrome and gastric reflux. Researchers haven’t pinned down the exact link, but it has to do with how much the noodles are processed and the fact that, like other refined grains such as white rice or white bread, they’re practically nutrient-free.
Ramen was and always will be a cheap guilty pleasure.
Then again, based on the success of Brooklyn’s Ramen Burger, I don’t think anybody cares.
Moving on: Getting rid of the flavor packet still has perks. If you throw it away, you offload at least a couple hundred milligrams of sodium and, more importantly, set your taste buds free. We’re all pretty sick of Top Ramen’s chicken flavor and slightly confused by the “Oriental” option. What cultural cuisine is that supposed to mimic, exactly? This is not a time to accept limits. Let the Internet guide you to better places.
If you go off-script, there’s room in your conscience for, say, the three-fourths of a block of cheddar cheese required for Spoon University’s Ram n’ Cheese. The cornstarch is necessary if you want the cheese to mix well.
Ramen is also a viable uncooked ingredient, especially for dessert. You can substitute crunched-up noodles for Rice Krispies in this no-bake chocolate peanut butter snack. My roommate was a little skeptical about how it looked, but it tastes similar to the real thing.
Another great option is Sriracha noodle soup, which is still fantastic without the scallions and cilantro if you’re short on ingredients. Then again, Sriracha makes everything fantastic.
If you need more inspiration, Budget101.com has compiled 144 ramen recipes, which might be more ramen than any one person can eat in a school year, if not an entire college career.
Challenge accepted?
