[jacobolus]

> instant ramen, which is basically an MSG+salt solution masquerading

Non-instant ramen is also essentially salt + oil + glutamate flavoring + noodles.

If you like you can take instant ramen and add a soft-boiled egg, some vegetables, and some fatty pork, or whatever other set of toppings you prefer.

[bobthepanda]

In fact, if you want to eat ramen at home it’s the most practical (at least for the soup.) Actual ramen broth takes a lot of time to make from scratch.

[rootusrootus]

I've heard that before, that many people like to buy Top Ramen (I think, IIRC it's considered better than Maruchan, but I may have it backwards) and then toss the noodles and keep the powdered soup pack. Much easier than the real thing, and respectably good given where it comes from.

Not sure what noodles to source, tho.

[bobthepanda]

Personally, I much prefer any of the Korean Nongshim brand for instant. (Shin Ramyun, etc.) The noodles have a better texture.

And for slightly more goodness, Asian marts will generally carry ready made broths and alkaline noodles. And one can whip up a broth from box stock if one wants something better.