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The 10-Minute Instant Noodle Glow-up

Love instant noodles but want something a little more balanced? This 10-minute instant noodle glow-up transforms a simple packet of noodles into a nourishing meal packed with vegetables, flavour, fibre, and optional protein. Quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy days when you need comfort food fast.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp garlic & ginger paste
  • 100 g mushrooms sliced
  • 3 carrots peeled and sliced
  • 2 heads pak choi chopped
  • 2 spring onions finely sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1 litre water
  • 2 x 90g packs instant noodles
  • 50 g spinach
Optional Protein Boost Ideas (choose or mix & match)
  • 50 g tofu cubed
  • 2 boiled eggs halved
  • 150 g cooked shredded chicken
  • 100 g edamame beans

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • chopping board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan or soup pot over a medium heat.
  2. Add the garlic & ginger paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring regularly, until fragrant.
  3. Add the mushrooms and carrots. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.
  4. Stir in the pak choi and spring onions and cook for a further 1 minute.
  5. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar and water. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add the instant noodles and cook according to the packet instructions, usually 2–3 minutes.
  7. Stir through the spinach during the final minute of cooking, allowing it to wilt into the broth.
  8. If using a protein boost such as tofu, cooked chicken or edamame beans, add it now and heat through.
  9. Divide between four bowls and serve immediately. If using boiled eggs, place half an egg on top of each serving.