College students generally don’t want to spend a lot of money on food nor spend a lot of time preparing it. As a recent college graduate, I can attest to being well aware of my limits concerning time and money. I was on a meal plan for four years, but I still took time to manage where and when I spent my meals and flex dollars. As a result of wanting to save time and money, many college students eat loads of ramen noodles. The food is inexpensive (typically 33 cents a package, sometimes can be found for less) and fast to make (3 minutes for plain ramen). Here in the U.S. the primary brand found is Nissin Top Ramen which provides a few of flavors including chicken, beef, shrimp, oriental, and chili. Even with the small range of flavors plain ramen gets pretty blah!
In order to differentiate the way we eat typical ramen I have started the “Dress-Up Your Ramen Project.” The project is focused on the college student’s lifestyle, but is perfectly applicable for anyone on a budget. I will do my best to provide healthful ways of utilizing ramen in your meals. Let’s face it; ramen is primarily carbohydrates, fats, and sodium. Those are not the building blocks to keep your mind and body healthy! In addition, YOU (the readers) will have the opportunity to offer your favorite ramen recipes and thoughts about the project.
It looks like you're limiting yourself to the Nissin and Maruchan [sp?] brands of noodles. You should definitely try to find some other Asian types of instant noodles.
ReplyDeleteLook for Mama Tomyum or my personal favorite, Nong Shim Neoguri [http://amzn.to/i8vsWa]. That last one has udon noodles, which are more chewy, but bigger.
You should be able to find either of those at an Asian market.