Review: Itsu Noodles & Broth - “Noodles Worth Loving"

When a brand like Itsu says their range is “noodles worth loving,” I was curious to find out if they could really live up to the hype.

Itsu very kindly sent me some of their new Noodles and Broth pots to try - the Chick n Ramen and Katsu Curry - both part of the noodles & broth collection created in partnership with acclaimed chef Monica Galetti.

Chef-Inspired, Restaurant-Quality Flavour

When Monica puts her name to something, you know it’s going to be good. Every recipe in the Itsu range is chef-inspired and crafted with care. Monica travelled to Japan to meet Yoshihiro and his team in Nagano, who make Itsu’s natural miso broths from scratch, never from powder.

Back in London, she and the Itsu food team refined each broth, balancing the flavours of garlic, sesame, and spice. The result? A range that genuinely feels restaurant-quality, modern, nutritious, and clean, but the kind of meal you can enjoy anywhere.

Quick Meals That Don’t Taste Like Compromise

Each pot contains hand-folded, steamed rice noodles (never fried) with a delicate miso broth base. They’re ready in just five minutes, just add hot water, the sauce sachet, stir, and you’ve got a warming, satisfying meal with no additives, MSG, or E-numbers.

They’re surprisingly versatile too. I took both flavours with me to the coast while working at Fear Island, and they were a total lifesaver. After long days on my feet, these little pots made the perfect quick dinner. And on later starts, I’d often have one in the dressing room before work - instant comfort and nutrition in a pot.

My Favourite Itsu Noodles and Broth? - The Katsu Curry

While both flavours were delicious, my personal favourite was the Katsu Curry Noodles & Broth. It’s lightly spiced, fragrant, and has that comforting depth you want from a good curry.

At just 192 kcal per pot, it’s filling without the guilt, ideal if you’re keeping to a calorie goal.

The “Pimped-Up” Version - Thai-Style Salmon Katsu

I also took part in Itsu’s challenge to “pimp up” your pot, turning it into a more elaborate meal. Here’s my twist - a Thai-inspired salmon version that transforms the humble pot into something special: using ingredients who might well already have in your kitchen.

 Thai-Style Salmon Katsu Recipe

• Itsu Katsu Curry Noodles

• Salmon fillet

• Carton coconut milk

• Soy sauce

• Honey

• Chilli flakes

• Spinach

• Spring onion

• Coriander

• Sesame seeds

• Chilli oil

• Crispy onions

• Pumpkin seeds (optional crunch)

• Peanut butter (creamy hack)

• Oats (optional thickener if needed)

Step-by-Step

1) Glaze & cook the salmon

Brush salmon with:

• 1 tsp soy sauce

• 1/2 tsp honey

• pinch chilli flakes

Cook:

• Pan-sear 4–5 mins each side

(You're going for caramelised edges + juicy centre)

2) Make creamy katsu broth

In a pan warm gently:

• 200ml coconut milk (carton)

• 100ml boiling water

• The Itsu seasoning packet

• Small spoon peanut butter (thickens & adds richness)

• Handful spinach

• Pinch chilli flakes (optional)

Stir well and let it gently bubble for 2 mins. If it looks too thin: sprinkle in 1 tsp oats, simmer 1 more min

It should go silky and glossy

3) Add noodles

Add the noodles to the broth. lLet them soften 2 - 3 mins, stir through

4) Assemble

Put your noodles into a bowl and top with the salmon

Finish with:

• Spring onion

• Coriander

• Sesame seeds

• Crispy onions

• Drizzle chilli oil

• Sprinkle pumpkin seeds (optional crunch)

Serving note

Coconut carton milk = lighter

Peanut butter = creamier

Spinach = sneaky greens win

Crispy onions = however long you think… then add more, or use the ready made ones you can buy like I did.

Final vibe

This bowl is:

• cosy

• creamy

• a little spicy

• full of protein + greens

• takes under 10 minutes

• looks like you got it from a zen little ramen bar

It’s quick, healthy, and feels like a takeaway treat - but takes less than ten minutes to make.

Health, Happiness & Good Taste

Itsu’s philosophy is all about creating healthy food for busy people. These pots are perfect for anyone who wants something fast but refuses to compromise on flavour or quality.

I love that they’re low in calories, additive-free, vegan-friendly (except for the chicken varieties), and made with restaurant-quality miso broths from Japan. They’re proof that convenience doesn’t have to mean processed.

For me, the Itsu Noodles & Broth range really is “noodles worth loving.” They’ve become one of my go-tos for long workdays, road trips, or cosy nights when I need something quick but satisfying. Whether you enjoy them straight from the pot or “pimped up” with your own toppings, they’re a cupboard essential for anyone who loves good food made simple.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Delicious, convenient, and packed with flavour.

Love Tx

*Gifted