Instant noodles are dried or precooked noodles and are often sold with packets of flavoring including seasoning oil. Dried noodles are usually eaten after being cooked or soaked in boiling water, while precooked noodles can be reheated or eaten straight from the packet. Instant noodles were invented by Momofuku Andō of Nissin Foods, Japan.
Philippines
There are many local and imported brands of instant noodles in the country, which are locally known as "Instant Mami", after the Philippine version of chicken noodle soup. Brands in the Philippines include Lucky Me, Payless, Nissin, QuickChow, and Ho-Mi. They are sold in packets, sealed cups or sealed styrofoam bowls. Because of their fast preparation and affordability, instant noodles are popular as a quick snack or for breakfast.
Filipinos sometimes add an egg directly into the pot while cooking instant noodles. Another popular variation is the instant pancit canton, stir-fried noodles resembling the local pancit. These noodles are boiled and drained, then a flavoring powder, soy sauce, oil and bits of carrot and celery are added.
