Original Noodle Cup
Original Noodle Cup
The one that started it all. Nissin's Original Cup Noodle is the Japanese icon that catapulted instant ramen to global fame — and this is the authentic Japanese version in a larger size. Shrimp, egg, and green onion in a soy sauce broth that's endlessly customisable. Classic, reliable, and still one of the best.
- Open and prep
Peel the lid back halfway and take out any sachets sitting inside. Add the seasoning powder into the bowl as directed on the packet. Having everything unpacked and laid out before you pour makes the whole process smoother and quicker.
- Add boiling water
Pour freshly boiled water into the bowl up to the inner line, which is about the indicated fill line. Make sure the water covers all the noodles evenly so they cook through properly. Give it a moment to settle before closing the lid.
- Let it steep
Pop the lid back on and wait for 3 minutes. This is when the noodles soften and the broth develops its full depth of flavour. Resist the urge to peek, the trapped steam does important work making everything come together inside the bowl.
- Stir and serve
Remove the lid and give the bowl a really thorough stir from the bottom up, making sure all the seasoning is mixed through and nothing is stuck to the base. Serve it while it's piping hot and finish with your favourite toppings.
Background
Every packet has a story behind it. Here's where this one comes from, what makes it tick, and why it made the cut for the box.
Nissin was founded by Momofuku Ando in 1958 after he invented the world's first instant noodle, Chicken Ramen. Headquartered in Osaka, the company went on to create Cup Noodle in 1971, changing how the world eats. Today Nissin remains the global leader in instant noodles.
This noodle comes from Japan, a country with a rich and diverse noodle culture that has influenced instant ramen traditions around the world. Each region brings its own distinctive flavours, techniques, and ingredients to the bowl.
A clear, elegant soy sauce-based broth with a deep amber colour. Shoyu ramen is the oldest ramen style in Japan, and the best versions balance the saltiness of soy with a rich underlying stock. The result is a broth that is savoury, clean, and deeply layered.
The noodles in this bowl are crafted to complement the broth style perfectly. The texture, thickness, and cooking time are all calibrated so that the noodles and soup work together as a complete experience rather than separate elements sharing the same bowl.
Nissin's Cup Noodle was invented in 1971 after Momofuku Ando watched Americans eating his ramen from paper cups. He designed the cup format specifically for Western markets, but it became just as popular in Japan. Over 40 billion cups have been sold worldwide.
Shoyu ramen is the foundation of Japanese ramen culture, and a good one is hard to beat. This bowl does not try to be flashy. It just delivers a clean, savoury, deeply satisfying broth with well-made noodles. Sometimes the classics are classics for a reason.
Topping Suggestions
A few toppings that take this bowl from good to great. Most are already in your kitchen, and every one is optional.
Chilli Oil
Chilli oil delivers a fiery kick and a deep, smoky heat, adding a spicy dimension that can transform the noodles into a sizzling delight.
Boiled Egg
A soft-boiled egg brings a creamy richness that complements the noodles perfectly, providing a luscious, slightly savory contrast.
Kimchi
Kimchi infuses a powerful, tangy, and spicy essence, adding a burst of fermented, pickled flavors to the noodles that tantalize the palate.