Wait, What?

"Redeeming Ramen"? What's this all about?
Well, many of us are all in the same pickle, where every paycheck you gotta choose between rent, student loans, food, and the like. I've only got so much to go around, any many just settle on two meals of ramen or cereal and call it a day. It's a real shame to give up on eating healthy just because fast food is cheaper, even if every now and then you can afford to blow a few dollars a burger and fries instead of the mere $0.33 you need to get some ramen. But! There are ways to add some much-needed vitamins into your ramen-based diet, since ramen really is just noodles, and we can all muster up the energy to add something to noodles, even if only to break up the monotony.

I don't know how to cook. I don't understand this recipe. What's going on?
The great thing about ramen is that people who don't know how to cook (like me!) can approach it with confidence, because it's got a reputation for being super easy. That's why I try to be as simple as possible in my instructions, so that even the beginner can follow along. But I'm always here to help! If you've got any questions, let me know by commenting on the page at the bottom!

I don't have time to cook. This is taking too long. How long is this gonna take?
Generally, I pace things so that you can do most of the work while the water is boiling. This usually takes five to ten minutes. It might seem like its taking a while for stuff to happen here and there, but that's just because all you're doing is sitting around and waiting. Might be a good time to make some tea? Or prep for a future meal?

I don't have the money to cook. This is too expensive. Is there a cheaper version?
There is always a cheaper alternative out there. Look above for a guide to alternative ingredients and general pricing. I appreciate any and all help with pricing averages from region to region!

I hear you need to use spices for things to taste fancy. What kind should I use?
There are all sorts of fun spices out there! Check out my spice guide above.

This isn't a full meal. I'm still hungry.
Actually, most of my recipes yield two portions, which isn't meant as a jab. I had to really cut down on the amount of food I ate when I left college. Even though I did that because of money reasons, it helped me gain a little control over my weight. Keep in mind: ramen is, on it's own, salty simple carbs. Those are digested super quickly and give your body little to work with, making you instantly hungry again. Hence, adding the veggies and protein!

I could use a little protein. How can I get cheap protein?
With a little planning and a little saving, you can splurge on a $3 carton of eggs, or a $2.90 pack of imitation crab meat, for some protein. Hunt down a "ghetto-y" neighborhood (unless that's where your apartment is, in which case you don't have to go far) and scour all the convenience stores and grocers for some cheap protein. Look at the deli counter: they'll sometimes sell the tips of smoked fish and ends of cold cut blocks for cheap. Take a few seconds to pull out the bones and weird end knobs when you get home and voila, a little cheap protein!

I can use a little more vegetables. How can I get cheap vegetables?
The easiest way? The one that'll save you a lot of money in the long run, and provide a relaxing hobby that'll make you seem like a better person? Try what I do: Urban Gardening. That's right, I grow my own veggies, and it's waaaaay easier than you would think. Check out my page on it above!

I don't have a lot of cooking utensils (pots, etc.); what should I do?
I personally use a tea kettle for all my boiling needs. Makes it easier to strain! Point is, there's always a way to make due.

Can I link to you/mention you/ask for your number or email address?
You can absolutely link back here or mention my site, but I'm not giving out any personal information at the moment. Sorry!