Funky and Authentic
I bought this based on an article in the LA Times: The official instant ramen power rankings By Lucas Kwan Peterson<br />Nov. 5, 2019.<br /><br />The smell is super strong.  My wife and kids said it smelled like dog food.  But then, they aren't into funky Asian foods like I am.  (E.g. They hate kimchi.  I love it.)<br /><br />As the article says, it's definitely the leader in the "the thing tastes like the thing" category.  This is definitely like real shrimp soup that you would get in the local area.  I have never been to Penang but I have traveled China.<br /><br />I love hot foods but I found this to be almost a little too hot for me to enjoy.  It creeps up on you.  I use half the packet of chili paste and a bit more water.<br /><br />The price tag is a bit high.  The local Asian market (which is actually mostly Korean) doesn't stock this.  I was willing to pay a bit more just for the convenience of trying it from Amazon.  However, I would not buy it again unless I can find it for $1/pack or less.<br /><br />Overall, it's an interesting experience.  If you like ramen, noodles, or soup, check it out.
Rating: 5 stars