If you’re a fan of Korean instant noodles and curious about trying something beyond the typical spicy ramyeon, let me introduce you to a delicious alternative – Gonghwachun Jjajang Cup Noodles (공화춘 자장컵). This is a black bean sauce noodle (also known as jjajangmyeon) that you can enjoy easily at home or on the go.
What Is It?
This instant cup noodle is inspired by the classic Korean-Chinese dish “jjajangmyeon,” a savory noodle dish covered in a thick black bean sauce. “Gonghwachun” is a well-known Korean-Chinese restaurant brand with a history of over 100 years, and now you can taste their famous jjajang flavor in a convenient cup format.
Brand: YouUs (GS Retail Premium)
Weight: 160g
Calories: 505 kcal
Price: Approx. 1,850 KRW (about $1.50 USD)
What’s Inside?
Inside the package, you’ll find:
Dried noodles
A rich black bean paste sauce packet
A packet of jjajang-flavored oil
How to Cook
Pour boiling water into the cup until the marked line.
Close the lid and wait for 4 minutes 30 seconds.
Drain the water using the clever drain holes marked on the lid (no extra strainer needed!).
Add the black bean sauce and oil.
Mix well and enjoy!
Taste & Texture
I was pleasantly surprised by how thick and chewy the noodles were – almost like fresh noodles! The sauce was rich, savory, and slightly sweet, with a deep umami flavor that makes it feel close to a restaurant-quality jjajangmyeon. There are even bits of soy protein, onion, and vegetables in the sauce, giving it more texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Sodium: 1,020 mg
Carbohydrates: 65 g
Fat: 23 g (Saturated fat: 12 g)
Protein: 10 g
It’s definitely not a light snack, but it’s filling and satisfying for a quick meal or late-night craving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re curious about Korean jjajangmyeon but want something easy to prepare, Gonghwachun Jjajang Cup Noodles is a great choice. It’s convenient, tasty, and gives you a taste of Korean-Chinese cuisine in just a few minutes.
Pros:
Deep jjajang flavor
Thick, chewy noodles
Easy water-drain system
Affordable price
Cons:
A bit high in sodium and fat
Sauce can be a little oily for some
Have you ever tried jjajangmyeon before? Or do you have a favorite Korean instant noodle? Share your thoughts in the comments!