The staple at every collegian’s quarters, ramen aka instant noodles are essential for the journey away from home. A perfect survival companion, it can be stashed anywhere and served fast in a microwave or electric pot.

Asian noodles, which symbolized longevity by its length, have a very long history in development. In contrast, its counterpart instant noodles’ popularity quickly traveled the world over on appeals, varieties and tastes.

While about 700 items of instant noodle are sold here, in Japan where it was invented, over 600 new items hit store shelves each year and some are of restaurant quality and price. Although a seemingly wide selection is generally available, new and better types are hard to get.

Before your next adventure with instant noodles, get acquainted here.

• Buyer Guide
• Survival Guide
• The Art of Eating …