We all know the classic pot noodle format, a plastic pot filled with noodles with some dehydrated veggies and perhaps some meat plus a sachet of seasoning. Pour over your boiling water, leave to stand and tada, noodles for lunch!
Now what if you could amp up that pot noodle, with some additional fresh ingredients and seasonings… or even make your own from scratch. You’ll know exactly what ingredients have gone into it and we’re willing to bet our lunch it’ll taste better too.
Find a pot noodle pot
A medium sized Kilner jar works perfectly for a posh pot noodle, but you can also use a regular sized Tupperware pot. Make sure it has a tight fitting lid, especially if you are going to be transporting your pot noodle to the office or out and about.
Pick the right noodles
If you are using a readymade pot noodle as your base then you already know your noodles will work fine. If you’re making your noodle pot from scratch, it’s essential to pick quick-cook noodles that only need to be steeped in boiling water. There are a variety of noodles on the market that will do the job, simply check in the instructions that they are suitable. You could also use precooked ‘straight to wok’ noodles.
Alternatively, for a pot noodle with a fraction more prep-time, pick any noodles you love and pre-cook them. Refresh them in cold water, drain thoroughly and allow to cool fully before using in your pot noodle. Your hot water will heat them through nicely when it’s time to eat.
Prepare your posh pot noodle
Start with your wettest ingredients at the base and layer up in order of ‘dryness’ as you work up the pot. It’s a good idea to start with any wet seasonings first, such as soy sauce, sriracha sauce, oyster sauce etc.
Next add your vegetables and/or meat. We don’t recommend using raw meat or fish, why not try cooked shredded chicken or pork?
Some combinations to try:
- Miso soup sachet, topped with tofu, sliced mushrooms and greens
- Gochujang chilli paste, topped with fresh chilli slices, cooked shredded chicken and finely chopped cabbage
- A stock cube, topped with peas, cooked pork and broccoli
Finally add your noodles on top then gently press down to secure the lid.
Top posh pot noodle tip: If you’re using a fresh herb or nut garnish, keep that to the side in a little pot or sealed packet to add just before serving (after your noodles have soaked in boiling water). This will keep your garnish in tip top condition and really amp up the fresh deliciousness of your post pot noodle.
Follow the video to make your pot noodle
Why not follow our video to make your first posh pot noodle? Find the full recipe and ingredients list here. If you don’t have gochujang paste you can substitute chilli sauce or sriracha sauce.
Find more instant noodle recipe ideas here. If you're inspired to cook some noodles, why not take part in our #OodlesOfNoodles community kitchen challenge, find the full details on Cookpad here.