ramen noodles were originally invented by the Japanese now we have instant that are sold in a precooked and dried noodle block, with flavoring powder. The flavoring is usually in a separate packet, although in the case of cup noodles the flavoring is often loose in the cup. Some instant noodle products are seal packed; these can be reheated or eaten straight from the packet or container. Dried noodle blocks are cooked or soaked in boiling water before eating.