A truly satisfying bowl of Korean ramen is known for its rich combination of meats, broths, vegetables, and noodles. Recently, we turned our attention to Knorr’s Korean Ramen in the Spicy Kimchi flavor to assess how well it captures the essence of Korean ramen, particularly focusing on its flavor and noodle texture. Although the ramen features a bold spice level, the quality of the noodles leaves something to be desired. Let’s dive into a detailed review to uncover the flavors, textures, and overall appeal of this instant ramen offering from Knorr.
Overview of Knorr Korean Ramen Spicy Kimchi
Knorr’s Korean Ramen in Spicy Kimchi flavor is packaged in a striking black and deep maroon wrapper. Each pack contains 96 grams of ramen and is priced at Rs. 60. It has a shelf life of 9 months, which makes it a convenient option for those who like to stock up on quick meal solutions. Inside the pack, you’ll find a block of noodles, a pouch of dehydrated vegetables, and a pouch of kimchi seasoning, all carefully separated to maintain freshness.
Ingredients and Preparation
The ingredients in Knorr’s Korean Ramen are designed to mimic traditional Korean ramen while offering convenience. The noodles are made from refined wheat flour, thickened with starches, and flavored with palm oil and other additives. The seasoning includes iodised salt, dehydrated vegetables (such as cabbage, onion, and ginger), and a range of flavor enhancers and spices. Notably, the seasoning features oleoresin chili, a concentrated chili extract that adds a robust spicy kick to the broth.
To prepare the ramen, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, add the noodles and dehydrated vegetables, and cook for about 5 minutes. After cooking, turn off the heat and mix in the kimchi seasoning. For additional flavor and texture, you can add ingredients like tofu, fresh kimchi, or sesame seeds, though we opted to stick with the basic preparation for this review.
Review of Knorr Korean Ramen Spicy Kimchi
Appearance and Texture
Upon opening the pack, the noodles have a distinct thick and long appearance with a light yellow color. This is quite different from the thin, slurpy noodles typically associated with instant ramen. The texture of these noodles leans towards being chewy rather than springy, which might not appeal to those who prefer a more delicate and bouncy noodle experience.
The texture of the noodles, as noted, is less than ideal. Instead of offering a satisfying springy bite, they tend to be more on the chewy side. This can be somewhat off-putting for those who are used to the lighter, more elastic noodles found in many other instant ramen varieties. The thickness of the noodles also affects the overall mouthfeel, making the ramen feel heavier and denser.
Flavor and Spice Level
The broth of Knorr’s Korean Ramen Spicy Kimchi is where the product shines. It offers a pleasantly bold flavor that is likely to appeal to those accustomed to spicy and robust profiles. The kimchi seasoning delivers a decent level of heat, creating a well-rounded medium spiciness that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the palate. The spiciness builds gradually, so while the initial bites might seem manageable, the heat can intensify as you continue eating.
The flavor profile of the broth is notably satisfying. It offers a good balance of spicy and savory notes, which makes it enjoyable for those who appreciate a bit of heat in their meals. The presence of oleoresin chili in the seasoning contributes to a strong, aromatic spice that enhances the ramen’s flavor without being excessively fiery.
Vegetables and Overall Experience
The dehydrated vegetables in the ramen—cabbage, spring onion, mushroom, broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini—rehydrate well during the cooking process. However, they do not significantly impact the overall review experience. While they add some texture and additional flavor, they do not stand out as a highlight of the dish. The primary focus remains on the spicy kimchi flavor, which is the real star of this ramen.
The overall experience of the ramen is quite enjoyable, particularly for those who love spicy foods. The flavor of the broth is the most compelling aspect of the ramen, making it a good option for spice enthusiasts. However, if you have a low tolerance for spicy foods, it’s wise to proceed with caution. The heat can build up and become quite intense with each bite, potentially overwhelming those who are not accustomed to spicy dishes.
Conclusion
Knorr’s Korean Ramen Spicy Kimchi is a solid instant ramen option with a flavorful broth and a well-balanced spice level. While the ramen excels in terms of taste and spice, it falls short in the noodle department. The thick, chewy noodles and the slightly oily aftertaste might not appeal to everyone. Despite these shortcomings, the ramen provides a satisfying and enjoyable meal for those who appreciate a spicy kick. If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful ramen with a bit of heat, Knorr’s Korean Ramen Spicy Kimchi is worth trying, though it may not be the ideal choice for those seeking a more traditional noodle texture.