Ramen Piki / Design By Kpopmap
Korean ramen has now gained global fame. To provide more specialized and intriguing stories about Korean ramen, we have brought in Korea’s only ramen expert critic, Piki. These articles are all written by Piki and offer various insights about ramen. We plan to release this series daily over the course of two weeks, so please stay tuned!
Let’s get into it!
Hello, ramen enthusiasts! This is Ji YoungJun, your Korean ramen critic and conqueror of unique flavors. Today, I present to you some extraordinary and quirky ramen varieties. These flavors may be polarizing, but if you love trying out-of-the-ordinary ramen, these are definitely worth a challenge. Shall we dive into the world of inventive ramen creations recommended by a ramen critic?
Note: Unique ramen varieties often have short lifespans or are released as limited editions. Currently, among the ramen featured in this special article, only one product, the ‘Habanero Lime Buldak Bokkeummyun’, is still being sold. The others have either been discontinued or were limited editions and are no longer available. Unfortunately, it’s common for unique ramen varieties to be discontinued within six months (after just one production run). However, it’s still fun to note the different flavor trends! Happy reading!
5th Place: Nongshim White Chapagetti (Released in May 2023)
Nongshim’s White Chapagetti takes the 5th spot. This ramen uses light brown fermented soybean paste and is enhanced with the umami of oyster sauce, giving it a seafood twist on the classic Chapagetti flavor. While it may not appeal to everyone, it’s an intriguing option for those who enjoy unique takes on black bean noodles.
Ratings
Nongshim White Chapagetti [Ramen Conqueror Episode 1766]
– Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.8)
– Spiciness: Low
– Notes: An unconventional black bean ramen with a seafood base.
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Nongshim White Chapagetti Big Bowl [Ramen Conqueror Episode 1639]
– Rating: ★★★★★ (4.6)
– Spiciness: Low
– Notes: The oyster sauce’s savory taste makes it a delightful new Chapagetti.
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4th Place: Paldo Bibimmyeon Strawberry Flavor Spring Edition (Released in February 2024)
In 4th place is the Paldo Bibimmyeon Strawberry Flavor Spring Edition. This limited-edition ramen adds a strawberry seasoning packet to the original spicy, tangy, and refreshing Paldo Bibimmyeon. Surprisingly, the strawberry flavor complements the traditional taste well. If you find it too unconventional, you can still enjoy the original flavor without the strawberry packet.
Ratings
Paldo Bibimmyeon Strawberry Flavor Spring Edition [Ramen Conqueror Episode 1839]
– Rating: ★★★★☆ (4)
– Spiciness: Medium
– Notes: The strawberry flavor surprisingly blends well with the tangy and spicy base.
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3rd Place: Paldo Ilpoom Seafood Ramen Nurungji Edition (Re-released in February 2024)
Paldo Ilpoom Seafood Ramen Nurungji Edition takes the 3rd spot. This limited-edition ramen combines Paldo’s classic seafood ramen with a nurungji (scorched rice) seasoning packet. The addition of nurungji enriches the broth with a toasty flavor, making it a must-try for nurungji lovers.
Ratings
Paldo Ilpoom Seafood Ramen Nurungji Edition [Ramen Conqueror Episode 1851]
– Rating: ★★★★☆ (4)
– Spiciness: Medium
– Notes: A unique limited-edition ramen that adds nurungji’s toasted flavor to the spicy seafood broth.
Ramen Piki Blog
2nd Place: Samyang Habanero Lime Buldak Bokkeummyun (Released in June 2023)
In 2nd place is Samyang’s Habanero Lime Buldak Bokkeummyun. Initially released in the U.S., this ramen features the fiery heat of habanero peppers combined with the tangy zest of lime. Its popularity in the U.S. led to its release in Korea. Be warned, this is extremely spicy, not for the faint-hearted!
Ratings
Samyang Habanero Lime Buldak Bokkeummyun [Ramen Conqueror Episode 1758]
– Rating: ★★★★☆ (4)
– Spiciness: Very High
– Notes: The lime aroma adds a refreshing twist to this intensely spicy Buldak Bokkeummyun.
Ramen Piki Blog
Samyang Habanero Lime Buldak Bokkeummyun Big Cup [Ramen Conqueror Episode 1675]
– Rating: ★★★★★ (4.6)
– Spiciness: Very High
– Notes: The subtle cilantro aroma enhances this tangy and spicy Buldak Bokkeummyun.
Ramen Piki Blog
1st Place: Nongshim Mugteng Big Bowl (Released in January 2024)
Taking the top spot is Nongshim’s Mugteng Big Bowl. This ramen is inspired by Nongshim’s popular Mugteng snack, featuring a teriyaki and Cheongyang mayo sauce blend. The ramen captures the subtle flavor of roasted dried pollack with a spicy yet savory finish. It’s a must-try for those who love unique ramen experiences.
Ratings
Nongshim Mugteng Big Bowl [Ramen Conqueror Episode 1824]**
– Rating: ★★★★★ (4.6)
– Spiciness: Medium-High
– Notes: An innovative stir-fried ramen with teriyaki, Cheongyang mayo, and a hint of roasted dried pollack.
Ramen Piki Blog
Today, I introduced you to some highly distinctive and polarizing ramen varieties. The creativity of ramen companies in developing such unique flavors is truly fascinating. I hope more exciting and unusual ramen will be released in the future.
Ramen Piki Blog
Thank you for reading to the end. Stay tuned for more intriguing and delicious ramen reviews!
