I Tried Fly by Jing’s New Instant Noodles, and They’re Better than the Fresh Ones from My Favorite Noodle Shop

published Nov 26, 2024
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gochujang chicken alfredo pasta in a bowl with some twirled around a fork
Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe; Food Styling: James Park

Fly By Jing is well-known for its high-quality Chinese sauces and condiments, and its Chili Crisp Oil is just one of the products that has received rave reviews from The Kitchn team. Recently, the brand expanded its offerings to include instant noodles in two saucy flavors: Sweet and Spicy and Chili Crisp. When Fly by Jing offered to let me try its latest launch, I jumped at the chance. Could instant noodles really be as good as the freshly made ones I get from my favorite noodle shop? After trying both flavors, I can tell you this: Not only did I keep coming back for more, but I may never order takeout again.

What Are Fly by Jing’s Sweet and Spicy and Chili Crisp Noodles?

Both the Sweet and Spicy and Chili Crisp varieties come with wavy noodles that are handcrafted in Sichuan and sun-dried for 12 hours. Sweet & Spicy includes packets of Fly By Jing’s Sweet & Spicy Zhong Sauce, Soy Sauce/Black Vinegar, and Dried Chives. Chili Crisp includes packets of the brand’s iconic Sichuan Chili Crisp, Shallot Sauce, Soy Sauce/Black Vinegar, and Dried Chives. Prepping the noodles is simple: Boil water, add the noodles until cooked, then drain and mix in sauces and seasonings. Done!

You can order a box containing six packages of either flavor for $35, so you’ll be set for a bit.

Why I Love Fly by Jing’s Sweet and Spicy and Chili Crisp Noodles

It’s clear that Fly By Jing’s instant noodles are thoughtfully crafted. The noodles themselves have the perfect texture when cooked — they’re soft and capture the sauces wonderfully in each bite. And the sauces! They’re mouthwateringly good and bursting with flavor. I also have to say that I loved the dried chives as a finishing touch.

I really enjoyed both varieties and can’t pick a favorite. The Sweet & Spicy has such a nice sweetness from the addition of brown sugar, which balances nicely with the spicy dried chilis. Speaking of which, these noodles do pack quite a punch in terms of heat (but that might just be me — everyone’s personal spice tolerance is different). As for the Chili Crisp, it has a unique umami flavor with notes of garlic, soy sauce, shallot, and black vinegar. I devoured the entire bowl in seconds. Overall, I’d recommend these noodles any day; they make you feel like you’re dining at the best noodle shop in town right in the comfort of your own home!

Credit: Haley Lyndes

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