Does Shin Ramyun Contain Beef? A Close Look at This Iconic Korean Noodle Soup

Shin Ramyun is one of the most popular instant noodle brands worldwide. Originating from South Korea these spicy noodle soups have developed a cult-like following across the globe. But does Shin Ramyun contain beef? Let’s explore the key ingredients in this iconic noodle soup.

The Short Answer

Yes, standard Shin Ramyun does contain beef More specifically, the soup base is made with a beef broth to give it that rich, savory flavor. Shin Ramyun uses textured vegetable protein (soy-based) along with beef extract to produce its signature tasty broth

However, for vegetarians and vegans, there are also beef-free Shin Ramyun options available. The brand has expanded to offer vegetable and kimchi flavored noodle soups without beef. So while the original does contain beef, you can still enjoy these famous noodles even if you don’t eat meat.

Exploring The Ingredients in Shin Ramyun

While the main component is the wheat flour noodles, it’s the proprietary soup powder that gives Shin Ramyun its distinctive spicy kick and addictive taste. Let’s look closer at what goes into that top-secret seasoning blend:

The Noodles

• Wheat flour
• Vegetable oil (palm, canola, cottonseed)
• Potato starch
• Water

The Soup Powder

• Textured vegetable protein (soy-based)
• Beef extract
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Sugar
• MSG (flavor enhancer)
• Chili pepper powder
• Mushroom powder
• Yeast extract
• Hydrolyzed corn and soy protein

The Popularity of Shin Ramyun

Since it was first launched in South Korea in 1986, Shin Ramyun has become a global phenomenon. It’s now sold in over 100 countries and marketed as the “Spicy Noodle” in the U.S.

In 2021, overseas sales of Shin Ramyun actually exceeded domestic sales in Korea for the first time. Out of total sales of 690 billion won, 53.6% came from international markets.

Several factors have fueled the rise of Shin Ramyun:

• Delicious taste – Many fans claim it’s the best instant noodle soup they’ve tried. The balance of spicy, savory, and sweet is hard to resist.

• Convenience – As an instant meal that cooks in minutes, it’s perfect for busy lifestyles.

• Affordability – Priced as a budget-friendly product, its popularity extends across economic demographics.

• Korean culture popularity – The global rise of K-pop, Korean dramas and movies has driven interest in Korean food.

• Pandemic demand – Quarantining consumers stocked up on instant noodles, making Shin Ramyun hard to find in stores for a while.

Thanks to its addictive flavor, convenience, clever marketing and exported Korean culture, Shin Ramyun has earned its spot as a leading instant noodle brand worldwide.

How Shin Ramyun Noodles Are Produced

To achieve the unique texture and taste of Shin Ramyun, an intricate manufacturing process is used:

• Filtered, temperature-controlled water is mixed with salt, vitamins and flavorings to create the broth base.

• The broth is combined with wheat flour to make flavored dough.

• The dough goes through a series of rollers to knead it to the ideal noodle thickness.

• The rolled noodles are steamed then fried in palm oil to cook thoroughly and drive off moisture.

• The noodles are cooled on a conveyor belt before packaging.

• The crisp noodles are combined in the package with dehydrated vegetable flakes and the powdered beef soup base.

Strict quality control ensures each batch of Shin Ramyun meets flavor and food safety standards. The production technology creates the springy, Q-shaped noodles that can stand up to the intense broth.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options for Shin Ramyun Lovers

While original Shin Ramyun relies on beef for its signature flavor, the brand has expanded to offer options for non-meat eaters:

• Spicy Veggie Ramen – Vegan noodles in a hot and spicy vegetable broth.

• Kimchi Ramen – Vegan noodles with authentic kimchi spice blend.

• Soon Veggie Noodle Soup – Wheat noodles and veggie soup without meat extract.

• Spicy Korean Shin Ramen Soup – Bestselling noodles with plant-based broth.

The key for vegetarians is to check labels and packaging to ensure the seasoning powder and broth are 100% meat-free. With plant-based alternatives, you can still enjoy the Shin Ramyun flavor you love.

Final Thoughts

For over 35 years, Shin Ramyun’s signature beef broth noodles have earned a passionate fandom across cultures. While the original does contain beef, the brand has expanded to meet demand for meatless options. Whether you prefer the classic beef noodles or the new veggie spins, Shin Ramyun’s fusion of spicy, savory and aromatic flavors make for an addictive meal that’s here to stay.