5 Must Try Korean Ramen only available in Korea

Introduction

Korea, renowned for its rich culinary traditions, has also become a global hotspot for instant noodles, with ramen being a beloved staple in Korean cuisine. What makes Korea’s ramen special is the red-pepper base of them. Of course, not all of them are red-pepper based but it is true for a large amount of the ramens. This red pepper taste is usually what makes Korean ramen stand out. Not only does the pepper make for a unique taste, but it also adds some spice – another famous aspect of ramen from South Korea! While the international market offers a huge selection of these amazing Korean ramen options, there are some exclusive flavors that you can only experience by travelling into the heart of Korea. In this blog, we will delight your taste buds with a list of 5 must-try Korean ramen varieties that are not just delicious but are unique to the Korean culinary scene.

1. Nongshim’s Shin Ramyun Black: The Premium Indulgence

While Shin Ramyun is already one of the most popular choices globally, the Shin Ramyun Black takes the experience to a whole new level. Infused with a rich and hearty & meaty broth, this premium version boasts a more complex flavor profile, enhanced by the addition of real beef, garlic, and shiitake mushrooms to ensure the consumers to get the nutrients they need. In addition, red pepper and green onion are added to give Shin Ramyun Black the famous ‘kick’ of Shin Ramyun. It is the essence of indulgence in a bowl, providing a gourmet twist to the classic Shin Ramyun. It can be found in some stores overseas, but you can easily find it in ay store in Korea! If you are a Shin Ramyun lover, do not miss out on this amazing flavor!

2. Nongshim’s Neoguri: A Great Symphony of Seafood

Up until the release of Neoguri in 1982, Korean ramen noodles had always been thin. So, when Nongshim released Neoguri, customers immediately took notice of its unique thick noodles, which had a more pleasant texture than other noodles on the market.  Neoguri is a classic in the Korean ramen scene, and while you might find the regular version outside Korea, the local edition packs an extra punch. This exclusive Korean Neoguri features a harmonious blend of seafood flavors, with a spicy kick that leaves a lingering warmth on your tongue. The addition of kelp and various seafood elements creates a symphony of tastes that truly captures the essence of the ocean. The delicious soup has a warm spicy seafood taste unrivaled by any other ramyun. So, if you are a seafood lover, do not forget to try Neoguri once you go to Korea!

3. Paldo’s Teumsae Ramyun: Spicy and Soothing

Teumsae Ramyun is soup-based ramyun and you will find dried vegetables inside. Cabbage, mushroom, pepper, and green onion are all included. Being vegetable-based, there are no meat chunks or seafood chunks in the seasoning packets, making this perfect for vegetarians or anyone who would prefer to avoid meat. Paldo's Teumsae Ramyun stands out as a fiery gem, capturing the hearts and taste buds of spice enthusiasts across the country. This mouthwatering creation is not just another instant noodle; it is a spicy symphony that elevates the art of ramen consumption to new, exhilarating heights. Teumsae ramyun has a spicy based sauce with unique spices and flavored sauce. It brings you the most unique and spicy taste, and once you try these noodles, you will never forget it being the spiciest noodle soup you can ever enjoy! It is the ideal choice for spice enthusiasts looking for a soothing yet flavorful experience. So, the next time you find yourself yearning for an explosion of flavors that lingers on your palate, embark on a journey with Paldo's Teumsae Ramyun – a spicy symphony that will leave you craving an encore.

4. Paldo’s Bibimmyeon: The Cold Noodle Sensation

As an exclusive Korean ramen experience, Bibimmyeon offers a departure from the steaming bowls of traditional ramen. Despite other ramen brands continuously releasing new products, it seems very hard to surpass the dominance of Paldo’s bibim noodles. Served cold, this unique dish features chewy noodles bathed in a tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce, accompanied by fresh vegetables and appropriately thin noodles, just the right amount to leave you wanting for more. The refreshing taste makes it a perfect choice during the hot Korean summers, providing a delightful contrast to the usual hot ramen fare. If you are travelling to Korea in summer, do not forget to try this delicious instant cold noodles!

5. Nongshim’s Chapagetti: Fusion of East and West

Chapagetti stands out as a distinctive Korean ramen that blends Eastern and Western flavors seamlessly. It is the fusion of Spaghetti and a Chinese black soybean paste known as “Chajang”. This fusion masterpiece combines the savory taste of black bean sauce with the convenience of instant noodles, creating a dish that captures the essence of Korean-Chinese cuisine. It has ramen noodles that have a thick and chunky black bean sauce with carrot, meat flakes, and sweet onions. The result is a rich and satisfying experience that showcases the diversity of Korean ramen offerings. If you are a Jjajangmyeon lover, do not forget to give this famous ramen during your stay in Korea!

Conclusion

Embarking on a culinary journey through Korea unveils a realm of distinctive flavors and gastronomic treasures, and the exclusive Korean ramen options highlighted in this blog are no exception. From the premium indulgence of Shin Ramyun Black to the seafood symphony of Neoguri, the soothing spice of Teumsae Ramyun, the refreshing cold noodle sensation of Bibimmyeon, and the fusion brilliance of Chapagetti, these ramen varieties encapsulate the diversity and innovation of Korean instant noodles. The exclusivity of these flavors, confined to the culinary landscape of Korea, adds an extra layer of excitement for ramen enthusiasts and food adventurers alike. It is a proof of Korea's commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional flavors, creating unique and unforgettable experiences that tantalize the taste buds. Even though there are many amazing restaurants you can eat at in Korea, you should not miss out on this delicious selection of instant ramens. From premium upgrades to traditional favorites with a twist, these ramen options offer a unique taste of Korea that you will not be able to find anywhere else. So, if you are a ramen enthusiast or a casual noodle lover, make sure to add these exclusive Korean ramen varieties to your must-try list on your next trip to Korea.

 

 

 

 

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