How an Ex-Prisoner Built a $7 Billion Ramen Empire

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  • Опубліковано 21 сер 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1 тис.

  • @newatlantisrepublic6844
    @newatlantisrepublic6844 10 місяців тому +436

    Thousands of college students owe this man a debt of gratitude!

    • @comptonking310
      @comptonking310 10 місяців тому +21

      Prisoners as well

    • @WesleyDaUrbanhog
      @WesleyDaUrbanhog 10 місяців тому +32

      More like millions.

    • @highmileagehusband1915
      @highmileagehusband1915 10 місяців тому +6

      ​@@comptonking310If you add more than three extra ingredients, you are Definitely a Felon. 😆😆😆

    • @Setton_Exile
      @Setton_Exile 10 місяців тому

      Or just someone with taste #NoJudgementHere 🤙🏼​@@highmileagehusband1915

    • @icemonkeyfire
      @icemonkeyfire 10 місяців тому +2

      Facts

  • @greengelacid2061
    @greengelacid2061 11 місяців тому +1410

    I’m an American, the whole world owes this man a debt of gratitude…I grew up relatively poor, this man’s affordable food kept me fed…I don’t know this man, but I love him like a dear friend…

    • @faceofextinction7156
      @faceofextinction7156 11 місяців тому +70

      Right. I grew up poor and ramen was a staple in my household. I'm raising my own family now and we keep ramen in our home.

    • @magiccarp3710
      @magiccarp3710 11 місяців тому +35

      He was destined to feed people God blessed him

    • @Youngerick1990
      @Youngerick1990 11 місяців тому

      @@faceofextinction7156smh high sodium high chemical processed ramen? 🫣

    • @deletdis6173
      @deletdis6173 11 місяців тому +7

      Facts

    • @goofyviewer1855
      @goofyviewer1855 11 місяців тому +3

      Why the need to tell us your american? Wanna include your state and zip?

  • @l-_-ls
    @l-_-ls 11 місяців тому +545

    He kept trying to help the people with his business ventures… deserves a Nobel peace prize for feeding billions of people to this day.

    • @atcera8714
      @atcera8714 11 місяців тому

      FR, Obama got a Nobel Peace prize for dropping bombs on civilians, I see no reason why this guy shouldn't get one

    • @Ed_H.
      @Ed_H. 11 місяців тому +12

      Well unfortunately it's impossible for a dead man to get a Nobel Prize (I don't know why), but yeah, he should have one.

    • @user-vc8xx6qm1x
      @user-vc8xx6qm1x 11 місяців тому

      ​@@Ed_H.Well, beacause the reward meant to be used?

    • @herrfantastisch7489
      @herrfantastisch7489 10 місяців тому +3

      @@user-vc8xx6qm1xHe should still be given one imo. I don’t see why someone who’s no longer alive but greatly helped humanity can’t have a Nobel Prize. It honours them above all else

    • @ajg8722
      @ajg8722 10 місяців тому

      Fax bro. Man’s a badass and hero. Wish more ppl were like him.

  • @tullymahin
    @tullymahin 11 місяців тому +23

    Its crazy that an ex-prisoner invented it, now its the #1 staple and currency in most jails and prisons.

    • @unkjason
      @unkjason Місяць тому +2

      He went ro prison for giving kids scholarships

  • @seanmckelvey6618
    @seanmckelvey6618 11 місяців тому +555

    Hard to imagine a world without instant noodles, People will complain about how unhealthy they can be, but at the end of the day they're a cheap meal that has kept millions of people going, regardless of the situation they might be in. That alone makes Ando worthy of praise and respect.

    • @craigpardy6204
      @craigpardy6204 10 місяців тому +18

      I really want a bowl now.. unfortunately I live on a tiny island and the only shop closes at 5

    • @Nuttyirishman85
      @Nuttyirishman85 10 місяців тому +1

      It’s kept millions of people still hungry, but they will keep going.

    • @comontoshi
      @comontoshi 10 місяців тому +3

      In Korea there is a restaurant where they serve instant ramen . . . 😘

    • @Guspech750
      @Guspech750 10 місяців тому +9

      Simply amazing. There is no political or religious leader who has helped more people in ths world than the noodle man! Hes a world treasure!

    • @comontoshi
      @comontoshi 10 місяців тому +3

      @@Guspech750 can’t eat religion! 😎

  • @rustyshackleford7334
    @rustyshackleford7334 Рік тому +2003

    Not only is this guy a national hero he should be just noticed as a hero of the whole planet he's basically fed the world

    • @Peekaboooooooooo4
      @Peekaboooooooooo4 11 місяців тому

      People die every day because of ramen

    • @irvingr.fatback886
      @irvingr.fatback886 11 місяців тому +9

      Beep beep!

    • @Salim_Habib
      @Salim_Habib 11 місяців тому +22

      He's not feeding us for free

    • @michaelmhm959
      @michaelmhm959 11 місяців тому

      do you expect him to? do you think he doesn't deserve to benefit off his actions? you can be selfless and humble while still making money and being in a position of power...@@Salim_Habib

    • @bennypika3575
      @bennypika3575 11 місяців тому +141

      @@Salim_Habib 25 cent were closer to free

  • @zerohours.
    @zerohours. 11 місяців тому +203

    Ramen is almost the perfect fast food. So many things can be added to it like eggs, vegetable, meat and you have a cheap full dinner. Love this man

    • @G.A.C_Preserve
      @G.A.C_Preserve 11 місяців тому +3

      Instant Ramen used to be a luxury item

    • @billlam7756
      @billlam7756 11 місяців тому +8

      It ain't cheap no more when you add eggs, vege, shrimp etc..lol

    • @mikewhocheeseharry5292
      @mikewhocheeseharry5292 11 місяців тому +19

      @@billlam7756eggs and vegetables aren’t expensive

    • @calebsmith1926
      @calebsmith1926 10 місяців тому

      ​@@mikewhocheeseharry5292eggs and veggies are pretty damn pricey when you're eating instant ramen to survive. I've lived in poverty my whole life, but I've grown fond of treating myself with adding canned chicken and green onions/scallions to my ramen. I no longer just need to eat Top Ramen and have been able to explore other, much better brands and flavors and it took me a long time to be able to afford the luxury of adding things to it.

    • @africarichmineral4124
      @africarichmineral4124 10 місяців тому +1

      🍜😋 Well Said 💯 ‼🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆✅

  • @cdanielh128
    @cdanielh128 11 місяців тому +469

    Grew up in the 80s. Dirt poor, no electricity half the time. One thing we could get that was hot and quick was ramen. I ate it so much along with rice, beans and potatoes that I eventually got sick of eating it. Years later when I was poor young man working and finding a place in the world again ramen this time cup ramen filled my cabinets. That along with take home pizza, (roommate was a Dominoes manager), fed me for over a year. I never realized that the food I spent a few years eating as a poor kid in the countryside was designed specifically for people like me. It changes my whole view. What a great man!

    • @fordhouse8b
      @fordhouse8b 11 місяців тому +3

      Except at the time Nissin instant ramen was first introduced, going to a noodle stall and getting yourself some ramen was FAR les expensive than purchasing the Original Chikin Ramen. I dot think I remember eating instant ramen (and certainly not restaurant ramen) until maybe high school, but I liked them right away. Now, in the age of internet shopping, I have learned not to just like instant noodles, but to love them, in all their nearly infinite varieties, and endless ways of customizing how you prepare and serve them. A couple of ways I have learned to elevate the mouthfeel and flavor of the broth of cheap ramen is to melt a slice of American Cheese (or other similar and highly processed cheese) in it, or to stir in a dab of mayonnaise. One of the few people I have known who had a real aversion to any kind of ramen is a woman who spent a couple of years in prison. I suppose many prisoners end up being sick of not after a while, similar to your experience as poor young man. I also ate a fair share of ramen as a poor college student (as well as the cheapest generic spaghetti I could find served with packets of ketchup I would take by the fistful every time I went to any kind of fast food establishment. Also of course the free packets of hot sauce from a nearby Taco Bell, which at that time still had the 39 cent tacos. Ten tacos for less than 4 dollars, those are the days! They might not have been exactly stuffed with toppings, but yips till got to eat 10 tortillas. And I got to acquire extra hot sauce for my ketchup spaghetti.

    • @tarabooartarmy3654
      @tarabooartarmy3654 11 місяців тому +10

      I was served my first ramen (a pack of chicken ramen, dry, as a side dish with roast chicken and peas) at a friend’s house in 1990. Loved them from that first bite. My friend’s mom kept apologizing for the cheap meal because her husband had passed away and money was tight, but to me it was one of the best things ever and I kept telling her so. After that, I bought ramen regularly and ate it whenever my parents cooked something I didn’t want to eat. Back then, my favorite flavor was beef, but now I love the pork or the spicy flavors. It’s getting REALLY hard to find the pork flavor these days!

    • @charlesferdinand422
      @charlesferdinand422 11 місяців тому +6

      So what's your status now?
      Are you still poor and/or living on the streets?
      Please tell me 😟😵‍💫🫤

    • @thomaslong8448
      @thomaslong8448 11 місяців тому +1

      @@charlesferdinand422 you want to marry her? Get in line!

    • @africarichmineral4124
      @africarichmineral4124 10 місяців тому +1

      👍 Great Comment 👍‼🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆✅

  • @chuck9380
    @chuck9380 9 місяців тому +52

    I grew up on Ramen and I was in a lower class household. I’m 41 making 6 figures and I still have Ramen in my cabinet along with peanut butter and Tuna in a can. It’s a reminder to be humble and remember where you come from.

    • @lohbut2
      @lohbut2 8 місяців тому +3

      I lived in Japan and got introduced to ramen there in the 80s. My father was an enlisted U.S. soldier with a family of six. Poor we were and I’m in the six figures now as welll.

    • @MissyMuthaTruckiN
      @MissyMuthaTruckiN 7 місяців тому

      💗 truth

    • @FoxyfloofJumps
      @FoxyfloofJumps 7 місяців тому

      Smart man.

    • @cyberneticsiren
      @cyberneticsiren 6 місяців тому

      For a second I thought you meant you combined the peanut butter, tuna, and ramen in the same bowl lol

  • @Desaree1
    @Desaree1 11 місяців тому +296

    This guy has literally saved me from a childhood of hunger.
    Ironically in the US jails top noodles are the main ingredient in all commissary made meals.

  • @kellykbartram8569
    @kellykbartram8569 11 місяців тому +103

    He certainly didn't just feed Japan ... he fed us ALL! God bless this man, and may he rest in peace.

  • @brandong.1857
    @brandong.1857 11 місяців тому +116

    Ironically Ramen noodles are the most popular item on prison commissaries these days. They are even used as currency there.

    • @Zenny916
      @Zenny916 10 місяців тому +1

      A soup for your thoughts, bunkie lol

  • @tedhubertcrusio372
    @tedhubertcrusio372 11 місяців тому +65

    Even Scout Rangers appreciate this man. Without Mr. Ando, we wouldn't have Scout Rangers, since they needed nonperishable meals to operate for months outside their homes, and Mr. Ando helped feed our fighting men. The man even earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Legion of Merit Awards for making it possible for Tier 1 groups to operate better.
    In memoriam to a man whose bones are now as dry as the noodle blocks, but whose memory is as warm as the soup we all know and love.
    Recquiesat in pace, victor.

  • @carmichael2359
    @carmichael2359 11 місяців тому +60

    I'm an American, and a friend introduced me to Instant Ramen Noodles when we were hungry college students. When going home to visit, I got my mom (who was a Great cook!) into them! Pretty soon, everywhere I looked, people were happily slurping ramen! I thank the Spirit of this great man who never gave up and inculcated ramen as a menu staple all over the world!

  • @BrianCarreraShaw
    @BrianCarreraShaw 11 місяців тому +219

    Even tho there is this stigma about instant noodles being unhealthy and so on, this man's determination and selflessness for creating something for everyone to have during a time of hunger and hardship is legendary. I salute you!

    • @doctorakiba5667
      @doctorakiba5667 11 місяців тому +21

      the irony is that the "unhealthy" instant noodles arent the ones made by Nissin (though i have read that these days, in some regions of the world, Nissin Japan isn't able to strictly control how other nissins manufacturers in other countries operate)

    • @atcera8714
      @atcera8714 11 місяців тому

      @@doctorakiba5667 even if they were really unhealthy, obama got a nobel peace prize for dropping bopmbs on civilians, I see no reason why this guy shouldn't get one

    • @joshschneider9766
      @joshschneider9766 11 місяців тому +23

      It's definitely not the healthiest thing in the world but it's certainly tasty and better than going hungry.

    • @Aelffwynn
      @Aelffwynn 11 місяців тому +14

      ​@@joshschneider9766it's also very customizable! You can always add whatever protein and veggies you have to make it a better meal, and use less of the seasoning if sodium is a concern.

    • @africarichmineral4124
      @africarichmineral4124 10 місяців тому

      @@joshschneider9766 , 👍👍👍✅

  • @Brand0n555
    @Brand0n555 11 місяців тому +60

    Instant Ramen has certainly helped me through tough times. This man deserves all the praises we can offer. May he rest in peace

  • @shhlonggy
    @shhlonggy 10 місяців тому +14

    I never liked the cup noodle version, but the instant ramen that you cook over the stovetop always has my heart

  • @Ed_H.
    @Ed_H. 11 місяців тому +47

    This man helped to keep me from going hungry as a kid, and, admittedly even as a grownup sometimes. The same must be true for millions all around the world. He's a hero and he deserves recognition.

    • @CompetitionSportsNetwork
      @CompetitionSportsNetwork 7 місяців тому

      he created a garbage food product that is loaded with sodium and you praise him for that?

  • @burakkurose
    @burakkurose 11 місяців тому +99

    Mister Momofuku Ando isn't just a national treasure he is a international hero. His selfless ventures to feed the people of Japan didn't just stop there, to this day he is still giving affordable meals to poor people around the globe. This man is inspiring.

    • @li6946
      @li6946 10 місяців тому

      His real name is wu bai fu …… he was Chinese

    • @woowonton
      @woowonton 3 місяці тому +1

      @@li6946 He was a Japanese of Taiwanese Han ethnicity descent. There is no such thing as a "Chinese" ethnicity, and just because he was of Han ethnicity does not entitle China to claim credit. It's like Germany claiming credit for Henry Heinz's inventions solely because he was of German descent or the Dutch claiming credit for Thomas Edison's (who was partially of Dutch descent) invention of the lightbulb.
      Momofuku was never born in China and never felt any nostalgia towards China. If anything, he felt an affinity towards Japan. He was born in Taiwan under Japanese rule. Typical mainlander. Stop trying to steal credit for things which are not yours.

    • @jerardxu2884
      @jerardxu2884 2 місяці тому

      @@woowontonwhatever you say! But his ethnicities is Han Chinese.

  • @tylwythteg
    @tylwythteg 11 місяців тому +78

    This man was an outstanding human. The world really does owe him gratitude. I'm glad I saw this.

  • @AndrewWayneV
    @AndrewWayneV 11 місяців тому +72

    Like many in the comments below. I grew up poor and had hard times myself when I went out on my own. I lived off of ramen noodles as they were very affordable and you could add different things for variety. Now that I am an old man I don't need to eat them but always keep some around as a comfort food. I owe this man a lot and hope that others realize the help he provided to those in need with his instant ramen. Thank you Sir.

  • @rolandsalonga771
    @rolandsalonga771 11 місяців тому +26

    When I was in prison. We were able to buy top ramen from the canteen. I used to buy 200 a month

    • @mph1ish
      @mph1ish 11 місяців тому

      I've seen prison shows where convicts would eat the block of noodles "raw" with the powder sprinkled over it. I'm guessing no access to hot water?

    • @mikewhocheeseharry5292
      @mikewhocheeseharry5292 11 місяців тому +1

      @@mph1ishThere are some brands like Mama brand instant noodles, that actually taste good dry out of its package. It’s somewhat like eating potato chips, deep fried and seasoning.

  • @zepptar
    @zepptar 11 місяців тому +39

    Ramen prices have quadrupled in the last 2 years. One cup is $1 at the local 99 cents store.

    • @ITIsFunnyDamnIT
      @ITIsFunnyDamnIT 11 місяців тому +19

      All food has gone way up in price, but these are still affordable. The ramen packages are cheaper than the cups, you can still get those under a dollar.

    • @santajerry
      @santajerry 11 місяців тому +3

      Much cheaper to buy in bulk if possible.

    • @X1.7
      @X1.7 11 місяців тому +7

      Ya get 5 packs for $1.25 at dollar tree lol

    • @zepptar
      @zepptar 11 місяців тому +2

      @@X1.7 the square packaged ones used to be like 7for a dollar

    • @thomaslong8448
      @thomaslong8448 11 місяців тому +2

      @@X1.7 I can survive for 5 days for $1.25?

  • @shary1283
    @shary1283 10 місяців тому +13

    First time in my life of 40 years i have see people around the world, race, religion and geographically praising a single person who helped people around the world (including me) to not go hungry. He really need a Nobel award for that. Salute to you. RIP Sir. ❤️❤️❤️

  • @infoscholar5221
    @infoscholar5221 11 місяців тому +38

    Legend! Got me through college. Respect to this great innovator, and I salute his tireless spirit!

  • @Googleistheantichrist
    @Googleistheantichrist 11 місяців тому +109

    The fact that his creation only needs hot water to make a meal is life changing for so many. It is still inexpensive and easy to make and has flavors that anyone can have is remarkable. Throw in some enriched ingredients and some cheep local produce and you have helped end starvation

    • @Marcos-eg9lt
      @Marcos-eg9lt 8 місяців тому

      Rice and beans are cheaper and have existed for much longer. How do instant ramen end starvation?

  • @teibaahmed1739
    @teibaahmed1739 Рік тому +59

    I am writing a paper about the history of cup ramen, i've seen about 10 of these videos and this is the best one by far. Most factually correct information I have seen about the topic! Just subbed - keep doing what you are doing, your channel will blow up one day soon! 🙂

  • @MrBoliao98
    @MrBoliao98 11 місяців тому +18

    From his native Taiwan, there are so many dried noodles and fried noodles. Like 伊麵 , Mee sua and many others. But somehow he manage to extend the lifespan beyond a few months.

  • @jeffreymyers1761
    @jeffreymyers1761 10 місяців тому +10

    I'm sincerely impressed on how he can lose everything multiple time and still pick himself up from his bootstraps and build back not just a normal life but a super successful one at that

  • @johnzvue
    @johnzvue 10 місяців тому +25

    This literally blew my mind, a food that carried my life over years for situational and preference and to know he did this All Alone no friend or partner he just went at it for years threw adversity and all is truly inspiring. He definitely deserves his own award with his name

    • @awesomeferret
      @awesomeferret 9 місяців тому

      Well, technically he had help from his wife... 🤷‍♂️

  • @Batmicheal
    @Batmicheal 11 місяців тому +66

    Neat. I had no idea. I have lived on ramen and other cheap foods during hard times myself. Early adulthood tends to be under funded and navigated by the inexperienced, and Ramen feeds millions of Americans every day. Thanks to variety I can still enjoy it unlike cheap hotdogs or bologna.

    • @kaarisdeusette407
      @kaarisdeusette407 11 місяців тому +1

      I feel you bro

    • @mikewhocheeseharry5292
      @mikewhocheeseharry5292 11 місяців тому

      Yeah I prefer Ramen than Spam or cheap hotdogs.

    • @fnjesusfreak
      @fnjesusfreak 10 місяців тому

      I'll sometimes cut hot dogs or kiełbasa into my ramen.

    • @fnjesusfreak
      @fnjesusfreak 10 місяців тому

      @@mikewhocheeseharry5292 You can cut Spam into ramen and have Hawaiian ramen xD

    • @mikewhocheeseharry5292
      @mikewhocheeseharry5292 10 місяців тому +2

      @@fnjesusfreak I’ll pass on adding spam since ramen itself is already too much sodium

  • @bingobongo1615
    @bingobongo1615 11 місяців тому +21

    Momofuku Ando is also a great tale about living between two countries and cultures.
    This video is based on his biography that completely omits it but born as a Chinese in Taiwan he became by choice Japanese but had to renounce his citizenship for a time after Ww2 so that the Taiwanese government wouldnt disown him and take his parental home and business from him.
    As tensions between Taiwan and Japan lessened later he became Japanese again in 1966 and is an outstanding example of a successful non-Japanese business man in post-war Japan

    • @TakCWAL
      @TakCWAL 8 місяців тому +1

      Momofuku Ando/Wu was born a Japanese subject of the Japanese province of Taiwan. He did not have to become a Japanese by choice, because there weren't any other choice. Heck, the Republic of China did not even recognize Taiwan as its own province, and Taiwanese who entered China before 1945 were officially foreigners. ROC maps dating in the 30s still showed Taiwan as part of Japan. It was only when total US victory became imminent did the KMT saw an opportunity to occupy the island of Taiwan.
      If anything, he became a Chinese citizen by choice, one made under coercion, because as you said, the KMT threatened to freeze his assets and confiscate his property. Nonetheless, it didn't stop him from moving to Japan immediately postwar, even if he was not officially Japanese yet. As soon as the political tensions eased, he ditched the KMT and regained Japanese citizenship, and that was not a difficult choice.

    • @user-dn1md7ls9y
      @user-dn1md7ls9y 20 днів тому

      @@TakCWAL I think the whole point is people known him as MOMOFUKU ANDO instead of his real name Go Pek-Hok from his Chinese ethnicity. He wasn't even mixed or full Chinese. He lived in Taiwan, so I don't imagine he was connected to China as a country itself. However, he was still Chinese and yet that part is completely erased. His idea of instant ramen had some influence from Chinese noodles itself since that is how Japanese ramen was invented so ignoring that part is not cool. He had a Japanese wife so I imagined that was the reason he picked Japan? China itself went through a lot of turmoil after the war, and he probably didn't feel connected to the country since he was from Taiwan and not to imagine China/Taiwan relationship.

  • @richardyoung871
    @richardyoung871 11 місяців тому +14

    In this video, in JAPAN they may call it Ramen but in HAWAII, we call it SAIMIN,and I was brought up on it, and I still eat it, because you can make a quick cheap easy meal for pennies as my children do and they like it

  • @hensonlaura
    @hensonlaura 11 місяців тому +22

    First saw Cup Noodle in California in 77. We carried tons of it to Saudi Arabia. Top Ramen helped get me through the misery of boarding school in the 80s; now I'm in Mexico & can enjoy both 💓 The Japanese kids in boarding school had a different kind of ramen. The noodles were soft, in a sealed pouch, and the flavor packets were liquid, with grease included.

    • @joelspaulding5964
      @joelspaulding5964 11 місяців тому +6

      Those are the bougie noodles. Well worth it- But often a luxury only reserved for work-study payday, every 2 weeks. 😅
      To be fair, my daughter introduced me to the world of alternate, easy to prepare, delicious noodles.
      Ramen and a couple chickens will get one through a Zombie apocalypse.

    • @mikewhocheeseharry5292
      @mikewhocheeseharry5292 11 місяців тому +1

      @@joelspaulding5964are they kind of like Udon noodles that you can usually find in the vegan/ tofu section of the grocery stores?

    • @OhPhuckYou
      @OhPhuckYou 10 місяців тому

      ​@@mikewhocheeseharry5292There are fresh noodle Raman packs. I'm not sure if OP is talking about those or mistaking Udon Noodles for Raman.

  • @QuenzaDuvalier509
    @QuenzaDuvalier509 11 місяців тому +39

    He has fed countless people from around the world including the United States Haiti Latin America and Asia of course

  • @anti-socialistsocialclub6032
    @anti-socialistsocialclub6032 9 місяців тому +4

    He is the homie all of us needed as a poor kid growing up. Always had food because of this man. Thank you!!

  • @juanguzman1563
    @juanguzman1563 11 місяців тому +11

    This man carb loaded a lot of bodybuilders and he definitely has a special place in my heart

  • @wildyoda2931
    @wildyoda2931 11 місяців тому +20

    He’s a world hero what an amazing life he lived and what an amazing accomplishment. Now every time I eat a bowl of ramen noodles I’ll think about this.

  • @justin_lee3005
    @justin_lee3005 10 місяців тому +9

    I spent my entire childhood eating ramen, literally from atleast 5th grade-high school I ate ramen everyday after school. One of my favorite meals growing up, my mom would boil some chicken, shred it and put it in ramen. My mom told me many years later, we were poor, that was the easiest way for my parents to feed the 6 of us…we were poor and I never noticed simply because of how much I enjoyed the ramen itself. I wish I could personally thank this man.

  • @robertvose7540
    @robertvose7540 11 місяців тому +22

    Thank you for this video. I didn't know I was in such an emotional relationship with Ramen in my life. Thank you for your great service to humanity, Momofuku Ando

  • @wamrainc176
    @wamrainc176 10 місяців тому +8

    Whenever I feel hopeless, and that I’m losing my faith in humanity, I like to watch videos like this to remind me of the good

  • @plazma5343
    @plazma5343 11 місяців тому +22

    A great man.
    His work drive and ethic is inspirationnal. Rip.

  • @UMAMIMAMU
    @UMAMIMAMU 11 місяців тому +20

    Super interesting considering ramen noodles are the no.1 prison commissary food item in prisons across the country, if not the entire world.

  • @hiddenbunny7205
    @hiddenbunny7205 11 місяців тому +14

    Ando, (born Go Pek-Hok 吳百福), signifies the division of Taiwanese identity during and after WW2. At the end of WW2, a good deal of Taiwanese identified themselves as Japanese (Taiwan is a Japanese colony between 1895-1945) while they are ethnically Hokkien Chinese descent (such as Ando). That's why he went to Japan, or "to the motherland". Most of the people who identified with Japan were seriously oppressed when chiang kai shek's Natioanlist party retreated to Taiwan, and one can say the whole Taiwanese independence movement started with the Taiwanese who identified themselves more as Japanese back in the 50s. Even today, Taiwan is a place that has a unique blend of Chinese and Japanese culture. Older Japanese people often think Okinawa and Taiwan are similar (Okinawa is closer to Taiwan than Japan mainland). Taiwanese often thinks Ramen is a Taiwanese invention due to Ando's origin, but Ando himself probably hoped to be a pure Japanese tho.

    • @user-dn1md7ls9y
      @user-dn1md7ls9y 20 днів тому

      I'm curious do you have source that he hoped to be a pure Japanese? I don't imagine it was fun being under Japanese colonial rule. Taiwanese left China and went to Taiwan so naturally they don't want to go back to China. There were a lot of conflicts then. Regardless, I don't think they refer Japan "to the motherland" as Japanese soldiers were known to be horrible during WII. Taiwanese invention or not, his origin came from Fujian China so his food and custom are probably came from there too. Ramen from China was introduced to Japan first and then later Ando invented instant ramen.
      "Ramen is a popular Japanese dish that consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso, and topped with ingredients such as sliced pork, dried seaweed, and green onions. The dish has its origins in China, where it was introduced to Japan in the 19th century.
      The first known instance of ramen in Japan occurred in 1859, when the Chinese ambassador to Japan, Zeng Gongliang, presented the dish to the Japanese Emperor. Ramen quickly gained popularity in Japan, and by the early 20th century, it had become a staple food in the country."
      otakuramen.com/a-brief-history-of-ramen/#:~:text=The%20dish%20has%20its%20origins,dish%20to%20the%20Japanese%20Emperor.

  • @payodomingo6789
    @payodomingo6789 11 місяців тому +8

    This man needs the noble prize his instant ramen is getting me through uni cheep n easy meal especially in a really cold winter day a hot bowl of soup is a budget chef kiss

    • @ori-yorudan
      @ori-yorudan 11 місяців тому +1

      It's the 'Nobel' prize, named after the inventor and scientist Alfred Nobel. Momofuku Ando never received one but he did get many other awards and medals of equal and greater value.

  • @patrickdurham8393
    @patrickdurham8393 11 місяців тому +7

    I keep a supply of Mama Ramen on hand because the noodles themselves are lightly seasoned and can be used to make other meals without a ton of added salt.

    • @mikewhocheeseharry5292
      @mikewhocheeseharry5292 11 місяців тому

      Me too!!! I have a box of the pork flavor ones and sometimes just eat the noodles raw in it’s package with seasoning sprinkled on top. 😂 I’m not currently starving but it reminds me of my childhood and now enjoy them as an adult.

  • @72PRODIGALSON
    @72PRODIGALSON 11 місяців тому +11

    I remember, practically, LIVING on Ramen back when I was in Job Corps. I still eat it, to this day, now that I'm in my 50s as a snack/comfort food and I'd always wondered how they got the noodles dried and able to be shelf stable; Indefinitely. Thanks for this video.

  • @thebreeze7117
    @thebreeze7117 11 місяців тому +4

    this food is what fed me in university...and every student out there.

  • @fleetingimmersion
    @fleetingimmersion 11 місяців тому +16

    This is a great video, def deserves more than 168 subs (as of now). Love a story about ramen and post-war Japan, it's incredibly satisfying.

  • @BruinsPastaSauce
    @BruinsPastaSauce 11 місяців тому +16

    dude went to prison for helping people. he helped people his whole life no matter the cause. the amount of bellys that are filled because of him will forever be greatful

  • @christopherrenn8137
    @christopherrenn8137 11 місяців тому +2

    You feed those you love.. this man loved us all. Ty for the food.. i would say good food but adequate is more apt.

  • @iammwen5883
    @iammwen5883 11 місяців тому +12

    So I watched this and then tried the original Top Ramen for the first time (I've been eating the other popular brand 'cause it's convenient). The Nissin noodles cost just a little more but have no MSG, lower sodium, a little less saturated fat and taste the same. Thanks for this video.

  • @zenjon7892
    @zenjon7892 11 місяців тому +6

    What an inspiration! I remember being poor and hungry and eating Ramen soups... I liked to experiment with different flavors and preparations

  • @Moviemaniac174892
    @Moviemaniac174892 11 місяців тому +4

    Those noodles got me through allot of cold & broke nights, thank you sir 👏👏👏

  • @ryanjofre
    @ryanjofre 11 місяців тому +5

    He should have been given a Nobel prize as his invention has fed more people and sustained more poor souls lives than anything in history.
    My hero.🙏

  • @AZrakoon
    @AZrakoon 11 місяців тому +4

    I was broke and ate instant ramen for lunch for lunch (still do), till I got back on my feet again. I used it to rebuild my life.

  • @EireHammer
    @EireHammer 11 місяців тому +3

    This is among my favorite bits of history, a bit of good amidst bitterness and sorrow.
    A scent of hope, a chance for another day!

  • @VomicaEmanio
    @VomicaEmanio 11 місяців тому +8

    These things made up like 50% of all my meals through my time as a student, and even today I always have a stash in my cupboard (though nowadays most are the expensive high quality ones)

  • @pierresihite8854
    @pierresihite8854 11 місяців тому +9

    Eating a bowl of indomie while watching this just hits the spot!!

  • @FormerlyYBMT
    @FormerlyYBMT 10 місяців тому +5

    Like most have said, if it wasn’t for this man, I’d likely have starved to death long ago. I legitimately owe my life to him.

  • @samoanpride9247
    @samoanpride9247 11 місяців тому +6

    WHAT A MAN! To have moments in your life you recall back too not only to provide motivation but to help strike ideas and help you become innovative. Dude was a genius. Having dinner with your wife watch her fry tempura and DING light bulb. Dope!

  • @rupvictoria3017
    @rupvictoria3017 Рік тому +14

    his story touched my heart 💙

  • @gleaveinjapan
    @gleaveinjapan 11 місяців тому +5

    Here in Osaka there is the Cup Noodle Museum. It is in Ikeda, north of Osaka. Should you visit Japan and want to go there just take the Hankyu Takarazuka train line from Umeda Osaka Station.

  • @sidneyvandykeii3169
    @sidneyvandykeii3169 11 місяців тому +29

    Instant Ramen noodles were a Godsend when I was young and poor. Buy a dozen Ramen noodles packs. Buy a Dozen eggs and buy some frozen mixed vegetables....or grow your own veggies. I could eat for a week on $10 to $15. This was the late 80s and 90s.

    • @thomaslong8448
      @thomaslong8448 11 місяців тому

      Sounds like you're gonna live long like the Japanese.

    • @sidneyvandykeii3169
      @sidneyvandykeii3169 11 місяців тому +1

      @@thomaslong8448I'm not living super long. I chain smoke cigarettes and drink beer most nights. I only eat Ramen a couple of times a month nowadays since I'm 53 and married (no kids). At least I have a physical job that keeps me in shape.

  • @ITIsFunnyDamnIT
    @ITIsFunnyDamnIT 11 місяців тому +7

    Interesting. I think anyone who is poor or has been or just barely getting by has eaten ramen. pack of ramen noodles fills ya up. This man is more than just a hero of Japan. he is a hero of the world. people all over the world survive on ramen noodles.

  • @coreyo8798
    @coreyo8798 11 місяців тому +16

    Thank you for sharing this story, as odd as it is it’s super inspiring to me as an avid instant noodle enjoyer

  • @Rebelartist83
    @Rebelartist83 10 місяців тому +2

    We never had ramen growing up and I grew up pretty poor but I think mom was worried about the sodium it was always beans and rice and whatever we got at the food bank but if we got ramens mom give them to a neighbor in the same boat as us and im not a ramen fan as i got older but I love this story and appreciate this mans ❤God bless him and its great what he did and invented and helped so many with his soup good for him 😊

  • @musicvideomaestro1209
    @musicvideomaestro1209 10 місяців тому +2

    You can tell how much love was put into this video. Keep it up!!

  • @JH-ks9oi
    @JH-ks9oi 11 місяців тому +7

    On my construction sites we had food trucks, but I always had couple cases of cup of noodles, when new laborers started some “like me 6yrs before” couldn’t afford even PBJ, but building is hard work,takes calories, I made sure they ate n stay hydrated, Texas is hot enough but construction causes heat from machinery, chemicals, welding, materials, all of it, these noodles saved many of my men’s lives

    • @tsugima6317
      @tsugima6317 11 місяців тому +1

      I would imagine that the electrolytes in the broth didn't hurt either.

  • @dwaynemontgomery1851
    @dwaynemontgomery1851 11 місяців тому +10

    this made me hungry, im heading to the store right now and buying some cup noodles!

  • @ZwrP
    @ZwrP 11 місяців тому +2

    this guy is like a deity to broke college students, praise instant noodles for keeping me alive lol.

  • @CurmudgeonExtraordinaire
    @CurmudgeonExtraordinaire 11 місяців тому +4

    Even today when I can afford to eat whatever I want, I still find myself using Ramen noodles as a base for a meal... Cut up some type of meat (pork, beef, chicken, shrimp) and season with soy sauce... Cut up a few mushrooms, some onions or green onions, hot peppers, and stir fry it in a small skillet while boiling the noodles in a 1-qt pot... Pour everything from the skillet into the pot and eat from the pot... Vary the spices so that it is not always the same...

    • @abdielver69
      @abdielver69 10 місяців тому

      Dang! That combination of ingredients sounds gourmet i need to up my ramen game!

    • @CurmudgeonExtraordinaire
      @CurmudgeonExtraordinaire 10 місяців тому

      @@abdielver69 -- "gourmet"? LMAO... I'm most definitely not a "great cook"... Maybe not even a "good cook"... I just found a balance between what what I could do vs what my taste buds could put up with... "When in doubt, add more hot peppers" is my philosophy... Or maybe, "When in doubt, add more wine (or beer, preferably) TO THE COOK..." Even before COVID, my wife said my taste buds were dead and they are probably even more dead now... We were pretty close to being "first in line" with catching COVID since we were traveling through SE Asia all of January of 2020 when it first started... That first time really sucked, but the 2nd time, the symptoms were even less than a mild cold... And *I* did not get "the jab"...

  • @austinforant4264
    @austinforant4264 10 місяців тому +3

    Thank you Momofuku Ando for your wonderful gift to the world. I always keep a case or two of cup noodles in my barracks for the nights I just need a quick cup of comfort when the mess hall is closed

  • @rosfell00
    @rosfell00 11 місяців тому +8

    Here in Mexico we recently got a flavor called esquites wich are essentially noodles with elote (corn) red bell pepper and some seasonings, usually when I can't spend too much on food or don't have time to cook I just make a cup of those and add mayonnaise and Tabasco sauce, it's quick, cheap and tastes almost as good as real esquites, and all thanks to this man, greetings from Mexico...

    • @madmanmechanic8847
      @madmanmechanic8847 10 місяців тому +1

      And when you fart you blow corn on the ole lady while under the sheets no coolo for you

    • @kuruk9379
      @kuruk9379 10 місяців тому

      @@madmanmechanic8847😂😂😂😂 yo what i did not expect this

    • @madmanmechanic8847
      @madmanmechanic8847 10 місяців тому

      @@kuruk9379 bahahahbhahb me neither

  • @GR8119
    @GR8119 11 місяців тому +20

    Struggling college kids and poor people hold this man on a higher pedestal. And if u were both like me, the respect is even greater for this mans invention.

  • @Case16710
    @Case16710 10 місяців тому +1

    It’s worth noting that he started his most successful business at age 48. After decades of prosperity and setbacks, he never gave up. It’s never too late to try something new.

  • @trentkelly2303
    @trentkelly2303 11 місяців тому +24

    I've recently found a bunch of Asian grocery stores that stock nissin cup noodles and they're far superior to the standard ones you get in our supermarkets.
    Curry flavour is the bomb just FYI.

    • @mikewhocheeseharry5292
      @mikewhocheeseharry5292 11 місяців тому

      I like the Mama brand Pork Flavor. It doesn’t taste anything like pork and it’s not in a cup but you can easily cook in in your own cup. I prefer cooking it on a stove while making the broth first like adding meats, veggies, and then throw the noodles into the seasoned broth.

    • @KingC89
      @KingC89 10 місяців тому +1

      Yeah there's way better selections at Asian stores and Asian markets are everywhere here in California and every other place to I imagine.

  • @Koob335
    @Koob335 11 місяців тому +3

    Bro had no idea how many poor college kids he help get through college. The struggle was real lol

  • @nbaanomad6074
    @nbaanomad6074 11 місяців тому +1

    Fascinating video. I look forward to more like these.

  • @WaldoBagelTopper
    @WaldoBagelTopper 9 місяців тому +3

    When you stop and think about it, it's so peculiar, all the millions and billions of little ways that people change the world during their time here. Its really inspiring, but also sad when you consider that most people will never know what it feels like to be that impactful to the trajectory of mankind.

  • @pauloramirez8216
    @pauloramirez8216 10 місяців тому +3

    International hero to me. I can't count the times I relied on instant noodles to feed me back in my teenage years when my family was struggling.

  • @MegzLife
    @MegzLife 11 місяців тому +11

    Ramen noodles is a legit MVP! It is so convenient, cheap & gets the job done..when you are not rich & or on a budget etc. Salute!

  • @9unslin9er
    @9unslin9er 10 місяців тому +1

    Prisoner invents ramen.
    Ramen becomes most valuable commodity in prisons.
    The circle is now complete.

  • @bryannaing6316
    @bryannaing6316 11 місяців тому +17

    As a broke student, I thank this man for keeping all of us broke students fed. His work came back to helping students in the end.

  • @SIRRAUN
    @SIRRAUN 11 місяців тому +4

    he made kids all over the world a meal they can enjoy anytime ❤

  • @TheWolfie234
    @TheWolfie234 11 місяців тому +3

    Continues to feed me and countless others to this day. Thank you to this man

  • @langolier9
    @langolier9 8 місяців тому +2

    It was illegal to give scholarships. That is one of the most insane things I’ve ever heard in my life.

  • @deathbunny1718
    @deathbunny1718 8 місяців тому

    This man has helped so many college students who were in debt , and most of the world doesn't know his name.
    That's a legend right there.

  • @massmayhem5067
    @massmayhem5067 10 місяців тому +3

    If it wasn’t for him, there was a time of my life I wouldn’t have been able to eat!! Thank you sir!!!

  • @spacedredd
    @spacedredd 11 місяців тому +11

    Cup Of Noodles and Top Ramen were always in the pantry growing up in 70s-80s. My Dad had travel to Japan a lot in the 70s. So when he made Ramen he would add more than the packets of broth.
    In my 30s, I was made destitute a couple times. Ramen was always there to at least provide a hot meal. All I needed was the hot water. Sometimes it was just the noodles and packets other times I was able to add a bit more.
    Nowadays I stay away from the Styrofoam cups and just use the top Ramen. Just trying to be responsible for my waste foot print.
    Now, like as a kid there is always Ramen in the pantry.

    • @wed3k
      @wed3k 11 місяців тому +4

      I resort to ramen soup sometimes for the cure of a hangover, the sodium helps absorb water as well.

  • @TDK2K
    @TDK2K 10 місяців тому +2

    One of Japan's greatest inventions by far. Keeps the world fed for pennies.

  • @sharistrazz3313
    @sharistrazz3313 11 місяців тому +2

    What an AMAZING STORY!! Ironically, I watched this video while EATING MY RAMEN NOODLES with ONIONS & GREEN BEANS COOKED WITH the noodles!! 😁 I like my RAMEN W/ Broth and noodles very hydrated!

  • @HazardousChaos1
    @HazardousChaos1 10 місяців тому +3

    A big Thanks to the man who has fed the world 🌎

  • @arfriedman4577
    @arfriedman4577 11 місяців тому +3

    In the usa 1970s, my chicken cup noodles had eggs in it. I wish it still did.

  • @lizardking7772
    @lizardking7772 10 місяців тому +2

    This brought some tears in my eyes. This is why we are alive to create things

  • @dante666jt
    @dante666jt 11 місяців тому +2

    What ab inspiration born out of sadness and despair!

  • @shadowflame2247
    @shadowflame2247 Рік тому +5

    bud, you outta have more subscribers, the quality of this content surprises the hell out of me that you ain't got at least 1 mil followers, I'ma check out your other vids, an you got yourself another subscriber boi.

    • @dt3688
      @dt3688 11 місяців тому +1

      Yeah I gotta agree I thought he atleast have a few hundred thousand

  • @harukrentz435
    @harukrentz435 11 місяців тому +14

    Fun Fact: the biggest instant ramen in the world is located in Indonesia, a tropical country where wheat cannot grow. Their product, Indomie have been sold everywhere from Africa to Russia. It also serves as a part of ration for Australian soldiers and prisoners, and Ukraine soldiers on the battlefield.

    • @tristramfuller
      @tristramfuller 11 місяців тому +4

      That only shows that the owner of the company that made Indomie is a good businessman. Indomie is a cheap, low quality substitute for the Japanese instant noodle, so as to keep the price low and affordable for the consumers, just like MAMA from Thailand.
      One thing for sure is that, NO, Indomie is and was never part of Australian military *standard* ration. I am sure of that.

    • @savannahdebose757
      @savannahdebose757 11 місяців тому +2

      I love indomie!

    • @fordhouse8b
      @fordhouse8b 11 місяців тому +2

      @@tristramfuller I have eaten a wide variety of both Nissin, a well as other brands of Japanese instant noodles, and to say Indomie is a "cheap, low quality substitute for the Japanese instant noodle,” is a wild generalization. There are many varieties of Indomie noodles, and an even greater array of Japanese instant noodles of various brands. Some are better than others, and that which ones exactly that is, is a very subjective judgement. I personally like the original Nissin Chikin Ramen, the very first brand marketed by the company. I actually (in part) like it for the same reason I like the cheap MAMA noodles. the noodles in both of he’s brands are seasoned (MAMA also includes separate seasoning packets). This makes them very good for snacking on dry. My favorite Nissin Ramen is the Nissin Demae Black Garlic Oil Tonkotsu. I probably eat more Maruchan noodles though, simply because compared top the basic Nissin Top ramen, I can get a case of 24 for about ten bucks, while the Nissin top ramen is $30 for a case of 30 packs. I eat these when I have the inclination to a use the noodles as a base for a meal which I add my own seasonings and ingredients sometimes in soup form, sometimes not. If I want some quick delicious highly flavorful noodles, not in a soup form, then I tend to go for those “cheap” Indomie Mi Goreng noodles, which I love. By the way, at least on Amazon, the Japanese brand Maruchan is far less expensive (cheaper) than any product sold by Indomie. And far less delicious. If I am in the mod for something a little spicier, then the Korean Samyang Buldak Chicken is usually the way to go (or at least the way I go!). Sadly, I think you are correct about Indomie and Australian rations, it seems Maggi instant noodles are probably what they use. When looking into it, I came across a stray comment indicating that rumor might have gotten started after an Australian soldier was seen and heard on vide saying that the noodles he was eating LOOKED like Indomie, perhaps using the brand name as generic term for instant noodles. But I have never had Maggi noodles, so maybe they are equally delicious?

    • @tristramfuller
      @tristramfuller 11 місяців тому

      @@fordhouse8b I appreciate the effort you put into researching and analyzing the ramen topic. It was quite informative. It's no surprise that, like in any industry worldwide, there are cheap and lower-quality options available in Japan as well. (Just as we encounter such variations in businesspeople worldwide! 😄)
      To simplify our comparison, let's focus on the top instant noodles from Indonesia and Japan, which, with a quick Google search, appear to be Indomie and Sapporo Ichiban. I've had both, and I can confidently say they are not on the same level in terms of quality.

    • @tristramfuller
      @tristramfuller 11 місяців тому

      @@savannahdebose757 I am sure you do. You might want to try some of those from Japan, for example Sapporo Ichiban.

  • @joss2550
    @joss2550 8 місяців тому +1

    This was suchhhhhh a good video!! The pictures, the way you kept me interested the entire time.. can’t wait to watch your other videos!

  • @da_top_dukuray
    @da_top_dukuray 8 місяців тому

    As a truck driver I bow to this man, Ramen helps me through the rough hungry work days