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Menudo is a traditional Mexican dish that is a slow-simmered tripe soup with chilies and hominy. Cielo’s instant version is produced in Vietnam and distributed in the United States.
Produced in Vietnam by BIFOCO for Cielo Fresh Foods.
What’s in the Package
Inside the Cielo Menudo Instant Ramen Noodle Soup package, you’ll find a block of wheat noodles and four additional items: a liquid sauce sachet containing the menudo-style broth base, a silver dry seasoning sachet, a packet of dehydrated vegetables, and a foldable plastic fork.
How to Cook Cielo Menudo Instant Ramen Noodle Soup
- Peel back the lid and add the spice packets.
- Fill the bowl with boiling water to the line.
- Cover it tightly and let it stand for about 3 minutes.
- Open the lid, stir the noodles and enjoy.
How Does It Taste
The Mexican oregano comes through strongly. The broth has a noticeable saltiness that’s present but not overwhelming. Underneath the oregano there’s a subtle chipotle note that adds a nice smoky undertone and gives the broth more dimension than a single-note seasoning would.
We noticed the noodles had a chewy texture similar to MAMA Tom Yum noodles. They hold up in the broth without going soft.
The spice level is a mild 1 out of 5. There’s a soft smoky warmth rather than actual heat, which keeps things approachable but means the bowl needs help if you want any kick.
How Does It Compare
Of the three Cielo flavors here, the Menudo has the most flavor. The Mexican oregano comes through strong with a little smoke from the chipotle. The Birria is milder and sweeter. The Pozole shares the oregano note but adds cinnamon and a pleasant sourness that takes it in a slightly different direction.
How to Level Up Cielo Menudo Instant Ramen Noodle Soup
I would like to try this again, but adding braised tripe to it. If tripe isn’t accessible or you’re not a fan, shredded beef or pork works as a substitute and still respects the flavor direction.
A squeeze of fresh lime juice would be perfect right before eating. Hot sauce adds the heat the base broth is missing and lets you control the spice level yourself.
Final Verdict
The Cielo Menudo Instant Ramen Noodle Soup delivers more than expected on the oregano front. The chipotle smokiness is a nice touch and the overall flavor combination is solid. Add tripe or shredded beef, squeeze lime over the top, and add your own heat and this becomes a satisfying bowl.
Tasting Notes
Where to Buy Cielo Menudo Instant Ramen Noodle Soup
Check out my review of the brand’s other flavors:
Have you tried this instant ramen? What toppings would you add? Rate the noodles below!
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