Sapporo Ichiban Original Flavored Soup

Sapporo Ichiban Original is one of those budget ramens that’s been around long enough to have a real following. It’s not trying to do anything complicated. Think of it as a slightly more developed Maruchan.

Produced in United States. Distributed by Japan.

What’s in the Package

Inside the packaging, you’ll find a square block of fried wheat noodles and a single silver sachet containing the Original Soup Base powder.

How to Cook Sapporo Ichiban Original

1. Bring 2 cups (approx. 500ml) of water to a boil in a small pot.
2. Add the noodle block and boil for 3 minutes, gently separating the strands.
3. Remove from heat and add the Soup Base sachet.
4. Stir well until the powder is fully dissolved and serve.

How Does It Taste

Follow the package instructions and the saltiness is a lot. Two cups of water was not enough for us. Add at least another half cup before you cook. That adjustment brings the broth into a much more enjoyable range.

Once the salt is managed there’s a mild vegetable flavor with a distinct onion powder note running through it. It’s a clean savory broth that has just enough going on to distinguish it from a straight chicken or beef packet. Broth viscosity is a 2 out of 5. It’s slightly thicker than watery, which is a positive for this category.

The noodles are wavy at a 2 out of 5 on thickness. Standard quality for the lineup.

How Does It Compare

Within the Sapporo Ichiban lineup the Original sits between the Chicken Flavored Soup and the Miso Ramen in terms of complexity. The Chicken is the most accessible. The Miso has the most distinct flavor identity. The Original has a vegetable-forward profile that’s unique in the lineup. For a direct comparison at a similar price and format the Maruchan Chicken Flavor is the closest American equivalent but with less broth depth.

How to Level Up Sapporo Ichiban Original Flavored Soup

Fish cakes add a chewy texture that works well in this mild vegetable broth. A drizzle of sesame oil adds a nutty depth that complements the onion powder base. Green onions right before serving. And always add more water than the package says.

Final Verdict

It’s a reliable budget ramen that earns its place in the pantry. I would buy this again.

How do I rate my ramen? Check out the Ramen Rating Guide.

Related Instant Ramen

• Sapporo Ichiban Chicken Flavored Soup
• Sapporo Ichiban Miso Ramen
• Sapporo Ichiban Chow Mein
• Maruchan Chicken Flavor Ramen Noodle Soup
• Nissin Top Ramen Chicken

Where to buy Sapporo Ichiban Original Flavored Soup

• Amazon
• Hmart
• Target
• Walmart
• Weee!
• Yami