This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Extra Spicy is right on the package in big letters. My expectations going in were clear. The broth after cooking was diluted and surprisingly watery. Not the start we wanted from something calling itself Extra Spicy.
Produced in Vietnam.
What’s in the Package
Inside is a round block of fried wheat noodles topped with a generous layer of Extra Spicy seasoning powder and a mix of dehydrated vegetables, including green onions and carrots.
How to Cook Tapatío Extra Spicy Ramen
- Fill the cup with room-temperature water to the inside fill line.
- Cook uncovered on high for 3 minutes.
- Let the cup sit for 1 minute. This allows the noodles to absorb the spicy broth without becoming mushy.
- Stir thoroughly, making sure to scrape the bottom where the spicy concentrate tends to settle.
How Does It Taste
The flavor is lemony with a herbal note. It’s closer to chicken bouillon water with a few drops of Tapatio hot sauce added than anything that earns the extra spicy label. The spice is a 1 out of 5. My spice tolerance is higher than most but even James agreed this one was mild. It’s milder than Shin Ramyun.
The noodles are thin and wavy. The broth is thin. Nothing memorable on either front.
How Does It Compare
Within the Tapatio lineup the Extra Spicy is the most disappointing relative to expectations. The Carne Asada with Lime is the best of the lineup. The Original and Chicken are similarly flat but don’t promise extra heat. If you want actual spice at this price point the Nissin Hot & Spicy Chicken or Nongshim Shin Ramyun are both more honest about what they deliver.
How to Level Up Tapatio Original Ramen Noodle Soup
Use less water, fill to about a quarter inch below the fill line. That alone concentrates the flavor significantly. Crack an egg into the broth while it’s still hot and mix it through for richness. American cheese and Valentina hot sauce if you want to go further. Pan-seared chicken thighs turn it into an actual meal.
Final Verdict
The name doesn’t match the bowl. The broth is watery and the heat is underwhelming. Use less water, add hot sauce, and crack an egg in.
Tasting Notes
- Spice Level: 1/5
- Broth Viscosity: 1/5
- Noodle Thickness: 1/5
- Noodle Type: Wavy
- Topping Suggestions: Egg, American Cheese, Valentina Hot Sauce, Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs
How do I rate my ramen? Check out the Ramen Rating Guide.
Related Instant Ramen
- Tapatio Carne Asada with Lime Ramen Noodle Soup
- Tapatio Original Ramen Noodle Soup
- Tapatio Chicken Ramen Noodle Soup
- Tapatio Shrimp Ramen Noodle Soup
- Nongshim Shin Ramyun Spicy Noodle Soup
Where to buy Tapatio Extra Spicy Ramen Noodle Soup
Community Ratings
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
