How many instant noodles have you eaten in your life?
Today, I’m introducing the instant ramen that has been my absolute No.1 for all of my 41 years.
It’s a classic and incredibly popular product in Japan:
Sapporo Ichiban Shio Ramen (bag noodle version)!
About Sapporo Ichiban Bag Noodles
Sapporo Ichiban is a long-selling instant noodle brand produced by Sanyo Foods Co., Ltd. It’s one of Japan’s most iconic and beloved household ramen products.
The main flavors include soy sauce, miso, and shio (salt), along with several variations such as sesame and tonkotsu. For decades, Sapporo Ichiban has been a staple of Japanese home-style instant ramen.
History
- 1966: The first flavor, Sapporo Ichiban Shoyu, was released.
- 1971: My personal favorite, Shio Ramen, was introduced.
Among all the Sapporo Ichiban flavors—like soy sauce and miso—Shio Ramen is the most popular. In nationwide surveys, it consistently ranks at the top.
Let’s Make It!
This is everything inside: dried noodles, seasoning powder, and a packet of white sesame seeds.
Follow the instructions on the package exactly—they’re the best way to make it.
Use 500 ml of water!
Make it in a pot.
It tastes great on its own, but here’s my personal favorite upgrade:
add an egg and a sausage.
Boil the noodles, and when they’re almost done, drizzle in beaten egg.
Then add the seasoning powder and sesame seeds—mix, and you’re done.
Finished! I usually eat straight from the pot, but this time I served it in a bowl.
I also found some kimchi in the fridge, so I added that too.
Tasting Time!
It’s amazing—just like always!
I’ve been eating this ramen since I was a child, for decades. I can’t even count how many times I’ve had it.
It’s that delicious and never gets boring.
The best part of this Shio Ramen is the broth.
Even though it’s a salt-based soup, it has a wonderful aroma, a clean finish, and a deep, satisfying flavor. It’s the kind of broth you can easily drink to the last drop.
The beaten egg pairs perfectly with it, and the included sesame seeds make a surprisingly huge difference—you absolutely need them.
You can also enjoy it with any toppings you like.
Just like the package shows, adding vegetables or seafood would make it even better.
Where to Buy
Sapporo Ichiban Shio Ramen is a classic product, so you’ll find it in convenience stores, supermarkets, and pretty much anywhere in Japan.
It’s usually sold in 5-pack bags, though you can occasionally find single servings.
My recommendation is definitely the Shio flavor.
There’s also a cup-noodle version, but the bag-noodle type is far better.
Final Thoughts
There are many kinds of instant noodles out there, but if you haven’t tried this one yet, you really should.
Kids, adults, and seniors all love it—it’s the kind of flavor you can enjoy for a lifetime.
Experiment with your favorite toppings and make it your own!
→Sapporo Ichiban Shio Ramen Recipe Ideas
Thank you for reading!
