Did you know that a single serving of plain instant ramen can contain over 1,800 mg of sodium, nearly a whole day’s worth? Too much sodium increases the risk of high blood pressure, dehydration, and heart disease. Fortunately, low sodium ramen noodles offer a healthier ramen noodles alternative without sacrificing taste.
At Negi & Nori, we’ve listed the top 10 lower sodium ramen, complete with nutritional insights and tips to enhance their flavor while keeping your sodium consumption rate in check.
What is The Definition of Lower Sodium Ramen Noodle?
Low sodium instant ramen noodles are brands of ramen with significantly less sodium than regular instant ramen. They incorporate less sodium in broth, low-sodium seasoning packets, or ingredient replacements without sacrificing flavor to maintain lower salt content. They typically contain 500-800 mg of sodium per serving, while the regular instant ramen contains 1,500-1800 mg.
What Makes a Ramen Low in Sodium?
Low salt ramen noodles are made from ingredients and processes that reduce the amount of sodium without affecting the taste or quality. However, different factors are involved in making instant ramen low in sodium:
1. Low Sodium in The Broth
Traditional ramen broths, especially tonkotsu and miso, tend to be high in sodium. Low sodium ramen uses a less concentrated broth or replaces salt with natural seasonings like garlic, ginger, or seaweed to provide flavor.
2. Low Sodium Seasoning Packets
The majority of instant ramen contains a seasoning packet with elevated sodium levels. Low sodium ramen substitutes these with alternative seasonings, like low-sodium soy sauce or miso paste, to achieve flavor balance.
3. Plain or Whole Grain Noodles
Ramen noodles themselves are low in sodium content, but fried or pre-seasoned noodles can add extra salt. Low salt ramen might use plain, air-dried, or whole wheat noodles to avoid excess sodium.
4. Fresh or Homemade Ingredients
Preparing with raw ingredients like vegetables, lean proteins, and herbs instead of pre-packaged flavorings controls sodium consumption levels. Homemade ramen recipes allow you to season the noodles to taste with desired salt.
5. Balanced Sodium Content Per Serving
Regular ready-to-eat ramen contains over 1,800 mg of sodium per serving. Low sodium versions contain less than 800 mg per serving and are a better option.
The Benefits of Lower Sodium Ramen Noodles
Low sodium ramen is a healthy alternative to traditional instant ramen, allowing one to maintain control over sodium intake without having to forgo a comforting, satisfying meal. By consuming low sodium ramen noodles, one can ensure heart health, steer clear of the risks of high blood pressure, and maintain overall well-being. The following are the key benefits:
Supports Heart Health
Excess sodium can lead to high blood pressure and heart disease. Low sodium ramen promotes better cardiovascular health.
Reduces Water Retention and Bloating
Excessive sodium consumption leads to puffiness and water retention. A change to low sodium ramen minimizes puffiness and encourages hydration.
Helps in Kidney Health
Reduced sodium intake promotes kidney function by minimising the burden on the kidneys, decreasing the risk of kidney disease in the long term.
Preserves Balanced Sodium Intake
Low sodium options are necessary to keep sodium intake from exceeding the recommended daily levels of less than 2300 mg.
Permits More Flavor Configuration
With a reduced sodium base, you can enrich ramen with fresh ingredients such as vegetables, lean protein, and herbs without overwhelming saltiness.
Enhances Hydration Levels
Reduced sodium consumption avoids dehydration, ensuring electrolyte balance for improved overall hydration.
Top 10 Lower Sodium Ramen
The following is a carefully curated list of the top 10 lower sodium ramen brands that strike the perfect balance between flavor and mindful nutrition.
1. Immi Spicy “Beef” Ramen
Flavor Profile:
- Bold, spicy broth that mimics traditional beef ramen
- Umami-rich flavors rounded out by plant-based components
- Balanced warmth with a rich finish
Why It’s Great:
100% plant-based and keto-friendly ramen, Immi Spicy “Beef” Ramen is high in 24g of protein, 15g of fibre per serving and 890 mg of sodium. With significantly less sodium than most beef-flavored ramen, it delivers deep flavors without compromising health.
2. Mike’s Mighty Good Fried Garlic Chicken Ramen
Flavor Profile:
- Rich, creamy chicken broth with roasted garlic
- Velvety smooth texture with a soft blend of herbs
- Fresh noodles with a good, satisfying chewy bite
Why It’s Great:
Crafted from pure, high-quality ingredients, this ramen contains about 40% less sodium than mass-market brands. Without added MSG, it’s a tasty yet thoughtful choice for ramen lovers.
3. Koyo Reduced Sodium Garlic Pepper Ramen
Flavor Profile:
- Bold garlic taste with a subtle black pepper kick
- Light, savory broth without overwhelming
- Organic noodles with a chewy, ever-so-firm bite
Why It’s Great:
Crafted with organic, non-GMO ingredients, Koyo’s ramen boasts an MSG-free, preservative-free, vegan-friendly iteration of the popular dish. A lower sodium content makes it a better but tasty option.
4. Lotus Foods Millet & Brown Rice Ramen
Flavor Profile:
- The nutty earthy flavor of whole-grain millet and brown rice noodles
- Delicate miso broth with a soft balance of flavors
- Light but deeply satisfying for consumers who enjoy a less salty taste profile
Why It’s Great:
Whole grain and gluten-free, this ramen is lower in sodium than traditional miso varieties. It’s an organic, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly option that’s packed with natural goodness.
5. Nongshim Soon Veggie Noodle Soup
Flavor Profile:
- Deep umami taste in a rich vegetable broth
- Notes of shiitake mushrooms and green onions
- Soft and springy noodles that take in the flavor of the broth just right
Why It’s Great:
Certified vegan and with no artificial MSG added, this ramen presents a well-rounded, low-sodium alternative to standard instant noodle soups without sacrificing taste.
6. Ka-Me Curly Noodles with Savory Miso
Flavor Profile:
- Rich miso broth with undertones of sweetness
- Classic curly noodles that contribute an authentic ramen texture
- The seaweed and tofu flavors are subtle, working together to contribute depth
Why It’s Great:
Free of artificial colors and flavors, this ramen is a better option with reasonable sodium content and a quick and easy meal solution without added extras.
7. Dr. McDougall’s Right Foods Miso Ramen Soup
Flavor Description:
- Actual miso flavor with a light, meaty broth
- Whole grain noodles that yield chewy satisfaction
- A mild, gentle flavor that is ideal for individuals who prefer weaker flavors
Why It’s Great:
Vegan and organic, this ramen is low in fat and calories, offering a convenient, ready-to-eat meal without compromising on health-conscious ingredients.
8. Annie Chun’s Shoyu Ramen
Flavor Profile:
- Deep and rich soy sauce-based broth with umami notes
- Soft and quality noodles that take in the savory broth
- A hint of garlic and ginger for flavor sophistication
Why It’s Great:
Totally preservative and artificially color-free, Annie Chun’s Shoyu Ramen provides a lower-sodium alternative to shoyu ramen fans as an easy, satisfying meal solution.
9. Ocean’s Halo Vegan Ramen Broth
Flavor Profile:
- Light yet fragrant seaweed-infused broth with oceanic and umami undertones
- Subtlety in kelp, mushroom, and miso flavors
- Crisp, brothy experience, ideal for being customized with your noodles
Why It’s Great:
Organic and certified vegan, this ramen broth is free from MSG and artificial additives, making it a great base for low-sodium, homemade ramen bowls.
10. Thai Kitchen Gluten-Free Rice Noodle Soup
Flavor Profile:
- Fragrant and aromatic broth with citrusy, bright lemongrass and background chilli heat
- Smooth and silky rice noodles that pair well with the broth
- Light yet packed with flavor and a tangy Southeast Asian-style twist
Why It’s Great:
Gluten-free and non-GMO, this ramen naturally contains less sodium than other instant types and contains no artificial flavor or coloring.
Does Lower Sodium Ramen Lack Flavor?
The misconception that lower sodium in ramen doesn’t taste right is flat-out wrong. Flavor isn’t lost with less sodium. The key is balancing the ingredients and improving the flavor profile through technique.
Ramen flavor needn’t be sodium-reliant. While traditional broths are prepared using soy sauce or miso, umami-flavored ingredients like shiitake mushrooms, seaweed, and kombu add depth without adding extra salt. These ingredients all have savory flavors, mimicking salt-based seasonings. Low-sodium ramen also allows for creative toppings, like soft-boiled eggs or chili flakes, that add flavor without adding salt.
Read More: How Many Calories Are in a Ramen Bowl?
How to Make Lower Sodium Ramen Noodles at Home
You can enjoy a healthier version of your favorite dish at home by making less-sodium ramen noodles. To prepare your delicious low-sodium ramen, follow the steps below:
Ingredients:
- Fresh or dehydrated ramen noodles
- Low-sodium bone broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
- Umami-rich foods (kombu, shiitake mushrooms, miso paste)
- Vegetables such as bok choy, spinach, carrots, and green onions
- A lean protein source (boiled eggs, chicken, tofu)
- Tamari or low-sodium soy sauce (optional)
- Spices and herbs (ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and chili flakes)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Begin by simmering low-sodium broth in a big pan. Add kombu (sea kelp) and shiitake mushrooms to add umami flavors. You may also add a little low-sodium miso paste for another depth of flavor. Then simmer for 20–30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the broth is simmering, cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. For it to be low-sodium, boil using unsalted water.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Sauté garlic, ginger, and chilli flakes lightly in a small amount of sesame oil in a separate pan. Add fresh veggies like spinach and bok choy and sauté just until tender.
Step 4: Assemble the Ramen
After cooking the low sodium instant noodles, drain and put them in bowls. Add the sautéed vegetables to the noodles and the low-sodium broth.
Step 5: Add Protein
To make this a completely healthy ramen meal, add a boiled egg, tofu, or grilled chicken.
Step 6: Optional Toppings
Add a pinch of tamari or low-sodium soy sauce for extra taste. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a pinch of vinegar if desired.
Does Negi & Nori Have Lower Sodium Ramen?
At Negi & Nori, we take pride in offering some of London’s best ramen, with a variety of flavors prepared with authenticity and quality. While our menu does not feature a low-sodium ramen option, we try to prepare well-balanced broths that are not reliant on salt for flavor.
Personalizing Your Ramen for a Lower Sodium Version
If you like low-sodium noodles, this is how you can modify your order at Negi & Nori:
Opt for lighter broths: Our Shoyu Ramen and Miso Chicken Ramen feature chicken-based broths with less sodium-dense content than more robust broths like Tonkotsu Ramen.
Request less tare: Tare (seasoning base) adds depth to the broth but is also a source of sodium. Let us know, and we’ll adjust it for you.
Skip or reduce toppings with higher sodium: Ingredients like soy-marinated eggs or black garlic oil can be adjusted to suit your preference.
Choose plant-based alternatives: Our Yasai Tantamen Ramen and Vegan Tonkatsu Ramen use a sesame-based vegan broth, giving rich flavors with natural umami instead of excess salt.
Why Choose Ramen at Negi & Nori?
True Japanese flavors: Our ramen is prepared with traditional techniques to provide an experience you will never forget.
Fresh, quality ingredients: From slow-cooked, rich broths to perfectly cooked noodles, we ensure the highest quality in every bowl.
Customizable options: Want to go lighter on sodium? We’re happy to adjust your order to suit your preferences.
One of the best ramen restaurants in London: Our flavors and dedication to quality make us a must-visit spot for ramen lovers.
Final Thoughts
Lower sodium ramen does not have to be dull, you know. You can enjoy a rich, umami-flavored broth without overdoing the sodium with these top 10 lower sodium ramen. Whether you’re in the mood for home cooking or restaurant quality, you can choose the right dish.
At Negi & Nori, we know the importance of nutrition and flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for which kind of broth, or how light or rich, we’ve got the ideal ramen bowl for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is low-sodium ramen still flavorful?
Absolutely! Ramen can be just as tasty with low-sodium options, using foods that are rich in umami flavor like shiitake mushrooms, seaweed, miso, and roasted garlic. Strategic seasoning choices and cooking techniques create a full, rich flavor without the added salt.
How much sodium is in ramen noodles?
Instant ramen noodles’ sodium content can vary from 1500 mg to over 1,800 mg per serving based on the make and seasoning packet. Additionally, restaurant ramen has more saturated fats due to the rich broths and tare-based seasoning.
Can I reduce the sodium in regular ramen?
Yes! You can reduce sodium by using only half of the season packet, selecting low-sodium broth, or adding fresh ingredients like herbs, citrus, and umami enhancers. Substituting soy sauce with reduced-sodium alternatives also helps balance the flavors.
Is low sodium ramen good for weight loss?
It can! Low salt instant ramen reduces water retention and bloating, making it a better choice for a healthy diet. Choosing high-protein toppings like chicken or tofu and adding fibre-rich vegetables makes it even more weight-loss effective.
What are the best low sodium ramen options for a quick meal?
Low-sodium instant ramen or vegetable or noodle bowls with broth-based ramen is a healthy option for a quick meal. There are plenty of nutritionally sound ingredients such as sesame oil, mushrooms, and miso that contribute to the flavor without losing out on nutrition.
