Ramen is believed to have originated in China, and it’s unclear precisely when it was introduced to Japan. But ramen is a mainstay of Japanese cuisine, and throughout Asia. Though it’s commonly associated in the U.S. with packaged, dried noodles, the way to truly understand ramen is to think of it as a soup dish that contains noodles, not merely the noodles themselves.
What Are They Made Of?
At its most basic, ramen is a noodle soup dish that consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles, broth and toppings. Instant ramen may consist of a flash-fried or air-dried block of noodles, a flavor packet, and dried toppings, which get rehydrated and cooked with boiling water.
Ramen Noodles
Ramen noodles are wheat-based noodles made of wheat flour, water, salt and kansui—an alkaline water that gives ramen its characteristic springy and elastic texture. Noodles can come in a variety of shapes and textures, from thin to thick and straight to wavy. Instant ramen noodles are typically flash-fried, making them shelf-stable food that cooks more quickly.
Broth
There are several main categories for ramen noodle broths:
- Shoyu (soy sauce): A typically lighter, clear-brown broth seasoned with soy sauce, dried seafood, dried mushrooms or other proprietary ingredients.
- Shio (salt): Light-colored clear broth typically made with chicken stock.
- Miso (soybean paste): Creamy broth that can be light cream in color to red, seasoned with miso, a fermented soy paste.
- Tonkotsu (pork bone): Rich, creamy broth made from simmered pork bones.
Toppings
Ramen toppings vary widely but typically come with some type of protein (such as marbled, fatty pork slices, ground meat, fish cake or a soy-marinated boiled egg) and vegetables (such as seaweed, bamboo shoots, bean sprouts, bok choy or scallions). Instant ramen noodles may come with a packet of dried vegetables or seaweed.
10 Best Low-Salt Ramen Noodles
We’ve selected 10 options of low-sodium ramen noodles that you will find listed below!
Rank | Ramen Brand | Key Features |
1. | Maruchan Ramen Less Sodium Chicken | 25% less sodium, classic flavor retained, palatable mix of broth, veggies, and lean chicken |
2. | Koyo Ramen Soup | Clean, simple ingredients, vegan, non-GMO, baked noodles, savory broth with herbs and spices |
3. | Lotus Foods Organic Brown Rice Ramen | Vegan-friendly, gluten-free, 8g protein per bag, low-sodium veggie broth, organic brown rice |
4. | ONETANG Organic Millet & Brown Rice Ramen Noodle | Organic, gluten-free, rich in minerals and fiber, whole grain, vegan, low-fat |
5. | Dr. McDougall’s Vegan Chicken Ramen | 100% plant-based, 140mg sodium per serving, convenient microwave preparation |
6. | BOILING POINT Wok Noodle Package | Homemade, no added preservatives or additives, made from ground whole wheat, hearty noodles |
7. | Lemonilo Ramen – Chicken Chow Mein | Wheat and cassava flour, spinach, leek, no artificial flavors or colors, less sodium, 0g trans fats |
8. | A-Sha’s Healthy Ramen Noodles | Air-dried, wholesome wheat, rich in dietary fiber, reduced sodium, low in carbs and calories |
9. | SAMABILA Chicken Lite Instant Ramen | 35% less sodium, manufactured in wheat-free facility, quick and easy preparation |
10. | Pho’nomenal Bowl Instant Pho Noodles | Non-GMO, dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, air-dried rice flour noodles, quick preparation |
1. Maruchan Ramen Less Sodium Chicken
The Maruchan Ramen Less Sodium Chicken noodles are a healthier take on a classic, with 25% less sodium. The healthier take doesn’t really affect the flavors, making this a great option if you love ramen noodles but want a healthier option.
If you want to keep your diet in check but also don’t want to sacrifice the flavor of classic ramen, then you can treat yourself to a palatable mix of broth, veggies, and lean chicken, all with less sodium than other ramen.
This perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and convenience makes Maruchan Ramen Less Sodium Chicken your go-to for days when you need tasty flavor and great nutrition.
2. Koyo Ramen Soup
Koyo Ramen Soup is a delicious instant soup made with only clean, simple ingredients – no added MSG or high fructose corn syrup here. Plus, it’s vegan, Non-GMO, and free of artificial flavors and preservatives, so you can feel good about what you’re eating.
The ramen noodles are a special treat, too – expertly crafted from freshly milled, organic grains using the traditional roll-and-cut method and then baked (not fried) to perfection. So they’re better for you, and they taste better too.
The savory broth adds depth and flavor to the whole dish – with real herbs and spices that will make you say, “Yum!” Koyo Ramen Soup is the perfect way to get your noodle fix without any guilt.
3. Lotus Foods Organic Brown Rice Ramen
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, vegan-friendly, gluten-free product that leaves you feeling full and satisfied, look no further than Lotus Foods Organic Brown Rice Ramen!
Get a nutritious feast with your next meal, thanks to 8 grams of protein per bag. Organic brown rice, combined with a low-sodium veggie broth base, provides an experience that is entirely heavenly.
Plus, you can’t get any more vegan-friendly or gluten-free than this ramen. With no added artificial flavors or preservatives, each bite of Lotus Foods Organic Brown Rice Ramen will fill you up with healthy goodness.
With this ramen, you can treat yourself to an organic, protein-packed meal that is vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and low in sodium.
4. ONETANG Organic Millet & Brown Rice Ramen Noodle
Do you love ramen but want a healthier alternative? Look no further than ONETANG Organic Millet & Brown Rice Ramen Noodle! This delicious and nutritious ramen is made with the finest organic buckwheat and brown rice.
ONETANG Organic Millet & Brown Rice Ramen Noodle is rich in minerals and fiber, as well as USDA Organic, Gluten-free, Kosher, whole grain, vegan and low-fat! Plus, this ramen is packed with flavor and will fill you up!
This is a delicious, healthy meal that’s perfect for any time of day, and it’s the perfect source of healthy vitamins and minerals for your day.
5. Dr. McDougall’s Vegan Chicken Ramen
Dr. McDougall’s Vegan Chicken Ramen is an all-natural instant noodle cup that is 100% plant-based and completely vegan, providing a delicious and wholesome meal that you can enjoy without sacrificing nutrition.
With only 140mg of sodium per prepared serving, you can indulge in a tasty vegan meal without compromising your health goals.
And the best part? Making it is easy and fast! All you need is 2 minutes in the microwave, and you can enjoy a warm vegan meal right away. Plus, its compact size and sturdy cup make it great for on-the-go eating.
With its delicious flavor and convenient preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite – and with its low sodium content, you can feel good about treating yourself every once in a while.
6. BOILING POINT Wok Noodle Package
Your tastebuds are in for a pleasant surprise with our homemade BOILING POINT Wok Noodle Package! It’s free of any added preservatives and additives, so you can feel good knowing that you’re feeding your family wholesome, nutritious foods.
Made from ground whole wheat, these noodles are delicious, hearty, and have the perfect texture. Whether you simmer it in a soup or stir-fry it with your favorite vegetables and proteins, these healthy and delicious noodles will be the star of the show.
This BOILING POINT Wok Noodle Package is the perfect solution to enjoy satisfying and savory meals without sacrificing nutrition – you get all the flavor of restaurant-style cooking with none of the added preservatives and additives.
7. Lemonilo Ramen – Chicken Chow Mein
Lemonilo’s irresistible Ramen – Chicken Chow Mein is a mouth-watering dish that will nourish your soul. This hearty ramen is a tantalizing mix of wheat, cassava flour, spinach, and leek, all cooked to perfection and served with an exciting blend of savory spices.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a healthier option made without any artificial flavors, colors, MSG, or preservatives. It’s just pure, natural flavor that’ll leave you wanting more!
With less sodium and 0g of trans fats, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that’ll leave you feeling satisfied every time!
8. A-Sha Healthy Ramen Noodles
Are you ready for a healthy change in your ramen-eating habits? A-Sha’s Healthy Ramen Noodles are the perfect choice! Not only are they air-dried to preserve the natural flavor and freshness, but they are also made with wholesome wheat to give you a hearty but healthy meal.
These ramen noodles are rich in dietary fiber and are also low in carbs and calories – they are the perfect snack for health-conscious ramen aficionados. Best of all, they come with reduced sodium, so you won’t be taking in more sodium than necessary.
A-Sha’s Healthy Ramen Noodles will make you feel like you’re indulging in delicious take-out without the bloated regret.
9. SAMABILA Chicken Lite Instant Ramen
A delicious bowl of instant ramen is something that everyone loves, and with SAMABILA Chicken Lite Instant Ramen, you no longer have to worry about the heavy dose of salt that often comes with it.
With 35% less sodium than your average instant ramen, this is a tasty way to enjoy a classic favorite without packing on the pounds. And since this stuff is manufactured in a 100% wheat-free facility, you don’t ever have to worry about gluten content.
Whip up a quick and easy meal in just a few minutes – perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re in need of a comforting meal. SAMABILA has made it possible to enjoy the taste of your favorite ramen while also being mindful of your sodium intake.
10. Pho’nomenal Bowl Instant Pho Noodles
With Pho’nomenal Bowl, you get all the classic, comforting flavors of your favorite Vietnamese pho without the guilt!
These delicious pho noodles are non-GMO and 100% free from dairy, soy, gluten, and even high-fat fried noodles! Plus, it takes only minutes to prepare – no need to stand over the stove for hours.
Pho’nomenal Bowl Instant Pho Noodles are the perfect quick and healthy way to bring a little pho magic into your life. The noodles are made from rice flour instead of wheat flour, and they are air-dried rather than fried, making them extra healthy.
Whether you want to have your own pho night for the family or you need a convenient meal to take on your daily hustle, these instant Pho Noodles will keep you happy and healthy.
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