Cup Noodles contains palm oil (inflammatory), artificial flavors, TBHQ preservative, MSG enhancers, and refined enriched flour. This DIY version replaces palm oil with coconut oil, uses organic whole grain flour, real chicken bone broth powder instead of artificial flavors, and eliminates all preservatives and artificial additives while matching the umami-rich sodium profile.
Based on: Cup Noodles Chicken Flavor
· Makes approximately 25 servings
· Serving: 1 packet (65g) prepared with 1.5 cups hot water
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Cup Noodles Chicken Flavor from Nissin often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original Cup Noodles Chicken Flavor may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Provides natural golden color instead of artificial coloring
Baking soda
15g (about 1 tablespoon) · Bob's Red Mill Baking Soda
Creates alkaline environment for chewy noodle texture, mimicking kansui
Instructions
Step 1. Make the noodle base: In a large bowl, whisk together 800g organic flour and 15g baking soda until evenly distributed. This alkaline mixture will give your noodles the characteristic chewy texture. Heat 200g coconut oil until just melted (not hot), then gradually pour into the flour while mixing with a wooden spoon. The mixture should form coarse crumbs that hold together when squeezed.
Step 2. Create the seasoning blend: In a separate large bowl, combine 150g chicken bone broth powder, 80g nutritional yeast, 180g sea salt, 40g shiitake mushroom powder, 25g garlic powder, 20g onion powder, and 8g turmeric. Whisk thoroughly for 3-4 minutes to ensure even distribution - the nutritional yeast and mushroom powder tend to clump. The mixture should be a uniform golden color from the turmeric.
Step 3. Add vegetables and final mixing: Stir the 60g freeze-dried vegetable mix into the seasoning blend. Then gradually fold the coconut oil-flour mixture into the seasoning blend using a large spatula. Mix for 5-6 minutes until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture has a consistent texture throughout. There should be no dry spots or oil pockets.
Step 4. Form the noodle pieces: Working in small batches, press handfuls of the mixture firmly together, then break into irregular small pieces about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in size. These pieces will rehydrate into noodle-like strands when cooked. Spread the pieces in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets.
Step 5. Dehydrate for storage: Preheat oven to its lowest setting (170-200°F). Place the baking sheets in the oven and dehydrate for 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes, until the pieces feel dry but not brittle. They should still have slight give when pressed. Alternatively, use a dehydrator at 135°F for 4-6 hours.
Step 6. Portion into individual servings: Once completely cool, measure out 65g portions into small resealable bags or containers. Each portion makes one serving. Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months. To prepare: Add 1 packet to a bowl, pour 1.5 cups (350ml) boiling water over it, stir well, cover and let sit for 3-4 minutes until noodles are tender. Stir before eating - the sodium and fat content will be concentrated, so taste and adjust water as needed.
Storage
Store individual packets in airtight containers in a cool, dry pantry for up to 3 months. Without artificial preservatives, this has a shorter shelf life than commercial versions but maintains better nutritional value. Refrigeration can extend life to 6 months but may cause clumping.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.74
Cost per serving (store-bought)$0.89
Savings17%
While the upfront ingredient cost is higher, you're getting premium organic ingredients without seed oils, preservatives, or artificial additives. The real value is in ingredient quality - organic bone broth protein, coconut oil instead of palm oil, and no TBHQ or artificial flavors.