5 Instant Noodles You'll Want to Bring Home from Batam (Soup Version)
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Indonesian instant noodles are no stranger to Malaysian kitchens. We all grew up with Indomie and, for many younger readers, Mie Sedaap.
But if all the varieties on our supermarket shelves are already leaving you spoilt for choice, then you’ll be instant noodle heaven in Batam. Walk into any supermarket, and you’ll see shelves of mie instan that’ll have you questioning how many packets you can legally bring home.
Since we’ve already listed the must-try mie goreng varieties, here are the instant noodles you must try when you’re in the mood for something hot and soupy.
1. Indomie Rawon Pedas Mercon
Photo source: Tagar.id
Rawon is a specialty dish from East Java which was rated the world’s best soup by TasteAtlas in 2023. The dish is made from slow-cooked beef broth using buah keluak as its main ingredient, giving it a distinctive dark colour and nutty flavour.
Indomie Rawon Pedas Mercon faithfully recreates the dish in instant noodle form, but with a spicy twist. Although rawon isn’t traditionally spicy, Indomie’s version packs heat into the flavourful beefy broth, while the crispy salted egg pieces add texture and light relief in every bite.
2. Gaga 100 Extra Pedas Kuah Jalapeno
Photo source: Blibli
If you’re in the mood for something extra spicy, Gaga 100 Extra Pedas Kuah Jalapeno will set your tastebuds (and the rest of your mouth) ablaze. Some claim that this is the spiciest instant noodle in Indonesia, so you’ve been warned.
The broth itself has a savoury curry flavour that imparts an initial mid-level spiciness. However, this builds up over time, and is known to linger long after you’ve finished eating. If you still have sensation in your mouth, the noodles themselves are actually quite taste and give a nice bite.
3. Gaga Mie Gepeng Soup Chicken Black Pepper
Photo source: Javanese Taste
For something less extreme, Gaga Mie Gepeng Soup Chicken Black Pepper is a chicken-based broth flavoured with black pepper. While a black pepper broth may sound strange, it’s considered one of the best flavours from Gaga.
It brings the sweet and salty umami of soy and chicken together, and elevates it with black pepper as a secondary note. It’s only slightly spicy and great if you actually want to enjoy the texture of the noodles.
4. Lemonilo Mie Instan Kuah Ayam Bawang
Photo source: Javanese Taste
Lemonilo positions itself as a cleaner, healthier instant noodle that’s made without preservatives, flavour enhancers, and artificial colours.
This results in gentler, natural flavours and a lighter feel that complements their baked (instead of fried) noodles. The broth fully brings out the taste of chicken that’s sweetened with the hint of caramelised onion, tasting more like something grandma made. The noodles themselves are the highlight, with subtle hints of vegetable and an interesting texture from the baking process.
Unlike the other brands on this list, Lemonilo can be a little harder to find. Be sure to grab one if you see it!
5. Indomie Kuah Soto Lamongan
Photo source: Star Farm International
Soto Lamongan is a chicken soup from East Java that’s known for its fragrant broth and - most notably - the koya sprinkles on top. Koya is a savoury powder topping made from ground prawn crackers and fried garlic that adds an umami crunch to the already-rich flavours.
Indomie’s version faithfully replicates this flavour bomb, with a separate sachet of koya powder included in the pack. If you’re in the mood for something that’s not spicy and VERY savoury, this is it.
Instant noodles are quick and satisfying - just like a ferry to Batam
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
From Berjaya Waterfront, an air-conditioned ferry can get you to Batam in 90 minutes or less. Coupled with fuss-free boarding and fixed ticket prices, you can start a holiday on a whim without stress.
Once you’re there, the snack aisles are yours to explore. Here’s a protip - instant noodles and other grocery items make affordable, practical souvenirs.
Protip:
If you’re planning to bring back instant noodles in bulk, ask your ferry operator at Berjaya Waterfront about weight and baggage limits so you don’t end up with surprise excess baggage charges.
Customs will usually allow you to bring in a reasonable amount. However, bringing in several cartons may raise suspicion and require a declaration.