Fast Food for Thought: Ramen Noodles to Warm the Heart

Up and down, up and down—from day to day I can’t figure out the weather. As an Arkansas native, I won’t complain about the unusual warm days that we have had, but just as I’m ready to take my Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Monkey ice cream outside and enjoy the sun, it turns frigid again. Just my luck. Regardless, it is winter and considering that almost half of the people I’ve come into contact with are sick, I’ve decided that a no-fuss comfort soup may be just what we all need.

Who doesn’t have a package of Ramen Noodles sitting around? Exactly—but how often do we spice up this college kid diet staple? With the help of my beloved cousin Quincy, I brought together something that’s sure to keep you warm and satisfied on the days when you really need it. Add some saltine crackers on the side, and prepare to get comfortable.

Dessert Bonus: Considering that Valentine’s Day just passed, I know that there are plenty of you who have a surplus of chocolate candy sitting around (especially if you’re like me and you buy yourself a bag of heart candy on the 15th, when it goes on sale). Of course you can eat your candy plain, but if you’re looking for a way to use it all, try making your own ice cream twist. First, freeze your candy for 15-20 minutes. This will make candy with fillings easier to break apart. Next, pick out a pint of vanilla ice cream (or whatever you like), and let it sit out just enough for it to get soft, but not melt. While the ice cream is sitting out, take the candy and break it apart roughly either by hand or with a knife. Mix it in your ice cream, and voilà! Sure, it’s easy to find Snickers or Butterfinger ice cream, but this time, the combination of flavors is up to you.

With that, I leave you to go back to your study sessions, PowerPoint presentations, and midterm preparation (but don’t worry, that’s not for a little while, right?). Whatever it is that you have going on right now, don’t forget, the luxury of cooking is always yours for the taking!