National Noodle Day

A joyful young woman slurping noodles with chopsticks, wearing a cute chef's hat, traditional Chinese restaurant setting.. — National noodle day illustration

Prepare those chopsticks and get your twirl just right because you're going to get elbow-deep into noodles as we serve up a delectable dish of dutiful diligence on none other than National Noodle Day. Yummy!

When is Noodle Day?

It's national noodle day on the 6th October.

The Internet History of National Noodle Day

National Noodle Day on October 6th has amassed as much popularity as there are noodle types, and that's a plenty from our internet records! The slurping sound reached its peak, according to our prawn-cracker-crunching data, on the delightful date of October 6th, 2016. Adding an extra broth of warmth, our digital detectivism picked up a staggering 5878 internet mentions on this date, confirming 'carbs' the beloved concept. It seems noodles and netizens find themselves in a soup of love!

The Origins of National Noodle Day

The exact origin of National Noodle day is as much a mystery as how instant ramen cooks so fast. Some say it originated from the deep, al-dente, parts of the internet, creating a slurp heard around the world. Whatever its origins, it is agreed upon that this day celebrates the cultural importance of noodles, a food that has squiggled its way into many a kitchen and heart over thousands of years.

The Impact of Noodles

No other 'noodity’ can compete with the versatility of our beloved noodles. Soupy or stir-fried, served in lavish dinners or as an instant midnight snack, noodles have indeed morphed into a cultural icon. National Noodle Day, in turn, has become a testament not only to this gastronomical treasure but to the beautiful human ability to turn simple food into art, bridging cultures, and marking moments.

History behind the term 'Noodle'

4000 BCE

Ancient Beginnings

Noodles have a rich history that dates back to around 4000 BCE. The word 'noodle' is believed to have originated from the German word 'nudel' or the Latin word 'nodus', both of which mean 'knot'. In ancient times, noodles were made by hand, using basic ingredients like flour, water, and salt. These early noodles were enjoyed by various cultures in different parts of the world, including the Middle East and China.

1st Century CE

Silk Road Connection

During the 1st century CE, the Silk Road played a significant role in the spread of noodles. As trade routes expanded, so did the exchange of culinary traditions. Noodles became popular in China, and their consumption spread to neighboring regions and countries, such as Korea and Japan. This cultural diffusion contributed to the diverse range of noodle dishes we enjoy today.

13th Century

Arrival in Italy

In the 13th century, Marco Polo, an Italian explorer, returned from his travels to China and brought back tales of noodles to Europe. It is said that Polo discovered noodles during his stay in China and introduced them to the culinary scene in Italy. This introduction led to the development of various Italian pasta dishes that are popular worldwide, such as spaghetti and fettuccine.

17th Century

The Birth of Instant Noodles

The concept of instant noodles was born in the 17th century in Japan. During a period of rice scarcity, a Japanese chef named Momofuku Ando sought to find a solution to feed people quickly and affordably. After years of experimentation, he invented the world's first instant noodles, known as 'Chikin Ramen.' This innovation revolutionized the noodle industry, making noodles accessible and convenient to people worldwide.

20th Century

Global Popularity

In the 20th century, noodles gained immense popularity worldwide. Their versatility and ability to adapt to various cuisines made them a staple in many cultures. Different types of noodles, such as udon, soba, and vermicelli, emerged, each with its unique shape, texture, and flavor profile. Noodles found their way into countless traditional dishes, street food cultures, and contemporary fusion cuisines, satisfying cravings and delighting taste buds around the globe.

Did you know?

Did you know that the longest noodle ever made was nearly two miles long? A Chinese food company by the name of Bafang Yunji beat the former record by a (a noodle) hair in 2017.