To make standard instant noodles, start by heating 2 cups of water in a small cooking pot over high heat until reaches a boil. Next, place the dry block of noodles into the boiling water without breaking it. Let the noodles cook for 2 minutes, then gently press and submerge them with a fork or chopsticks until they’re soft. Remove the pot from the heat or turn the heat to low and mix in the seasoning you want to use. After mixing, pour the noodles and broth into a bowl and enjoy.

Making soup in a microwave is quick and easy when you’re warming up pre-made canned soup or soup from scratch. For heating soup, pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a lid, a paper towel or a piece of wax paper to prevent a mess but leave a gap to let steam escape. Microwave the soup on high for 2 to 3 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the bowl using oven mitts, stir the soup thoroughly and let it cool for 1 minute before eating.

To freeze your soup, start by letting the soup cool completely on the counter or in the fridge before putting it in a freezer. Putting hot soup in the freezer can affect the soup’s texture and warm up nearby foods. Pour the soup into a plastic food storage container or a freezer bag. Leave 1 to 2 inches of space at the top of the container so the liquid doesn’t crack the plastic as it expands. For resealable bags, press out the air, seal them tightly and lay them flat for easy storage. Write the contents and date on a label so it’s clearly identifiable.

Adding the right condiment or finishing touch can completely change how a bowl of soup tastes. Adding condiments to your soup can balance rich flavours, add acidity or introduce a different texture. If you’re looking to add something salty, consider sauces like fish sauce, soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. If you’re looking for something spicy, you can use hot sauce or peppers. If you’re looking for something crunchy to pair with your soup, look for croutons, crackers or tortilla strips.