FAQs

How long do I need to thaw the noodles before cooking?

We recommend thawing for 24 hours under refrigeration. For best texture, use within 14 days of thawing.

My noodles came tightly packed. What do I do next?

Gently loosen and separate Umi noodles before either portioning or cooking. Umi noodles are densely vacuum sealed to preserve freshness. Gently teasing them apart helps ensure your noodles cook evenly.

Do I need to cook Umi Organic ramen in boiling water?

Emphatically yes! These noodles are raw. You must cook them in boiling water as your first step in any preparation. 

How much water do I need to boil?

The most common mistake people make is cooking the noodles in too little water. These are fresh, not dried, and they will expand and release starch into the water. For the best texture and quality, we recommend using 1-1/2 quarts (6 cups) water per serving of noodles. Make sure the water is at a very rapid boil before adding noodles, and stir well while the noodles cook.

What is a standard serving size?

3 to 5 ounces of raw noodles.

How many people does one 5-pound package of Umi Organic noodles feed?

16 to 20 people, depending on the other ingredients you add. Specifically, one 5-pound bag contains 16 5-ounce portions or 20 4-ounce portions.

Can I cook all 5 pounds of noodles at once?

No. Cook no more than 6 servings (or about 30 oz) of noodles in a pot with at least 9 quarts of water.

Can I cook Umi Organic noodles in advance?

It depends on how you will serve them. For ramen or hot noodle bowls, we do not recommend cooking Umi noodles in advance. For pan-fried or cold noodle bowls, yes you can. After cooking, draining, and rinsing under very cold water until chilled, add oil to prevent sticking. Separate into servings and refrigerate until service.

If there is a lapse between when you cook the noodles and when you serve them, toss the noodles in a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. 

How are ramen noodles different from other fresh pasta?

Ramen noodles include an ingredient called kansui, or alkaline water. This mineralized water gives ramen noodles their springy resilience by transforming the proteins within wheat. It also creates the slippery mouthfeel that makes ramen great for slurping.

Why do Umi Organic ramen noodles contain barley?

Barley gives Umi noodles their nutty flavor and improved nutrition, and supports our local organic farmers who use barley as a crop rotation to build healthy soil.

Do you have more questions?

Do not hesitate to call or write us! We want to be a resource to you! 503-893-4806 or noodz@umiorganic.com.