It's not you, it's mie.....

[patgund]

Dear Indomie -

This is one of those letters I wish I didn't have to write. But people grow and change.......

I remember finding you in the Ralph's grocery stores in the late 80's early 90's, when you first explored the US market. I fell for your Mi Goreng goodness, and may have ended up eating way too much of it.

And then you left the direct US market, and for years I was lost, missing your fake fried noodles, and the mysterious kecap sweet soy. Imagine my joy to find you in the local 99 Ranch market! More than that, it was the full Indonesian version, with spices that must be treated with respect. Not the watered down for American tastes version.

For years, a box of Indomie lived in my pantry, and I shared "the world's most addictive ramen" with family and friends. 2005 I went to Doha, Qatar, and not only found you there waiting for me, but new flavours and cup noodles I'd never encountered. My favourite comfort food, for when I was away from home.

But people grow and change. Several months ago I noticed another package, Mie Sedaap Mi Goreng from Wing Foods . Another Indonesian ramen. Curious I got a couple packets. A few months later, when the grocery store was out of Indomie, I tried these two packets, thinking them no more than a pale imitation of your noodlely goodness, good for emergency ramen, nothing more...

I was wrong. From the moment I opened the package and found no less than five sachets, oil, chili *sauce*, not powder, kecap, seasoning, and dried onions, (which I could discard easily, as I'm not very fond of onions).

The chili sauce was stronger than the powder, but what I found in that bowl.....sighs in contentment.

I read that Wings Food has taken marketshare from you in Indonesia. I hate to say it, I can see why. And I expect it will become more popular as it becomes more available.

Don't get me wrong Indomie, I still like you and will always enjoy a bowl of your noodly goodness. But I am sad to say, you may no longer be the world's most addictive ramen. Mie Sedaap may just have claimed that title from you.

Comments

[selenesue.livejournal.com]

You may need a new icon and I may need to try Wings Food's product.

I'll swap my chili for your onions? You know I'm a heat wimp but love all alliums.

[patgund.livejournal.com]

You mean an icon like this?? :-)

*chuckle* I've got a batch of the dried crispy onion packets available.

[loli-cat.livejournal.com]