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If you’ve tried the Tapatio Shrimp or Chicken you already know what this one tastes like. The Original treads the same ground. It’s got the taste of garlic and onion powder, thin broth, minimal spice. The lineup is consistent in that regard.
Produced in Vietnam.
What’s in the Package
Inside, you’ll find a round block of fried wheat noodles pre-seasoned with a coat of orange original spice powder. It is topped with a loose mixture of dehydrated vegetables, specifically large pieces of green onions and dried red bell pepper.
How to Cook Tapatío Original Ramen
- Pour room-temperature water into the cup until it reaches the inside fill line.
- Cook uncovered on high for 3 minutes.
- Let it sit for 1 minute to allow the cabbage to fully rehydrate and the noodles to reach peak chewiness.
- Give it a good stir.
How Does It Taste
Garlic and onion powder are the main flavors and there’s nothing else going on underneath. The broth is diluted and the spice is a 1 out of 5. Compared to the Shrimp and Chicken, this one lacks even the slight aromatic note those two have. It’s the flattest of the three. No real discernible difference in flavor between this and its counterparts. Just less of what little they have.
How Does It Compare
Within the Tapatio lineup the Original is the most generic. The Carne Asada with Lime is the only variety with a distinct flavor profile and the one worth trying first. The Chicken and Shrimp at least have a slight aromatic note. The Original has the least going on of the four.
How to Level Up Tapatio Original Ramen Noodle Soup
A soft boiled egg adds the richness the thin broth needs. Add some smoked shredded pork or any leftover proteins.
Final Verdict
The most forgettable of the Tapatio lineup. Garlic and onion powder, thin broth, no heat to speak of. Add a soft boiled egg and smoked pork and it earns a second look. On its own there’s not much reason to reach for this over the Carne Asada.
Tasting Notes
- Spice Level: 1/5
- Broth Viscosity: 1/5
- Noodle Thickness: 1/5
- Noodle Type: Wavy
- Toppings: Soft Boiled Egg, Smoked Shredded Pork
How do I rate my ramen? Check out the Ramen Rating Guide.
Related Instant Ramen
- Tapatio Carne Asada with Lime Ramen Noodle Soup
- Tapatio Chicken Ramen Noodle Soup
- Tapatio Extra Spicy Ramen Noodle Soup
- Tapatio Shrimp Ramen Noodle Soup
- Maruchan Chicken Flavor Ramen Noodle Soup
Where to buy Tapatio Original Ramen Noodle Soup
Community Ratings
I like this one and it is easy to find around the Midwest. I’ve repurchased a few times, and usually add an egg or two.
It’s a little spicy and sour/vinegary, but it doesn’t have a specific flavor like chicken or beef.
