Invented by a
Japanese guy in
Osaka by the name of
Momofuku Ando.
Usually consist of dried noodles that are "cooked" by the addition of HOT water and waiting for at least 2 minutes! Some even come in their own cup for you to add the water to.
It appears to be the staple food of Asians when they go to live abroad for a period of time. And especially if they are living on their own.
They have been around South East Asia since 1958, and have spread quickly to into "western" supermarkets.
Instant - fast, convenient meal - and tasty. Nutritious? I'm not so sure. But never short on new flavours!