Instant ramen was invented in Japan in 1958 by Momofuku Ando as an affordable, quick meal for post‑war households. It quickly became a cultural icon, representing convenience, creativity, and the ability to personalize a basic staple.

The mayo‑egg version blends Japanese seasoning with Western condiments like mayonnaise, a common practice in Japanese‑American comfort food. This fusion creates a richer, velvety broth that appeals to both cultures' love for creamy textures.

In Japan, regional ramen styles such as Sapporo miso ramen and Hakata tonkotsu often feature garlic, scallions, and a tangy note from vinegar or citrus. The spicy garlic‑scallion twist mirrors those bold, aromatic profiles.

Instant ramen is commonly eaten as a quick lunch, late‑night snack, or comfort food during exams and busy workdays. It’s also a go‑to meal for students and anyone needing a fast, inexpensive dinner.

Egg‑drop ramen mimics the silky texture of Chinese egg‑drop soup while using Japanese instant noodles, creating a cross‑cultural dish that highlights the versatility of ramen as a canvas for broth styles.

Common errors include overcooking the noodles, burning the garlic, and adding the egg too quickly, which can cause curdling. Follow the timing cues, keep the broth at a gentle simmer, and drizzle the egg slowly for best results.

Mayonnaise provides fat and emulsification similar to cream but is shelf‑stable and adds a subtle tang. Combined with egg yolk, it creates a rich, silky texture without the need for heavy dairy.

You can pre‑mix the mayo‑egg sauce and the cornstarch slurry, storing each in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cooked noodles should be used fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated gently.

The egg should form thin, translucent ribbons that float gently in the broth, resembling delicate strands. If the egg looks clumped or fully cooked, it was added too quickly or the broth was boiling too hard.

The YouTube channel Joe Oxley focuses on quick, budget‑friendly cooking hacks, often using pantry staples and convenience foods to create flavorful meals that anyone can make at home.