Instant ___ - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Instant ___", is a classic example of a fill-in-the-blank. These clues are common in early-week puzzles and rely on the solver's familiarity with everyday phrases and collocations. The goal is to find the word that naturally and commonly follows the word provided.

Clue Analysis

The clue presents the word "Instant" followed by a blank. The solver's task is to complete the phrase. The word "instant" implies something that is prepared or happens very quickly. Our minds immediately start searching for common phrases that begin this way. While there are several possibilities like "instant coffee" or "instant replay," the correct answer will be determined by the length of the entry and any crossing letters you've already filled in.

Thinking Approaches

1. Direct Phrase Completion: The most straightforward approach is to let your brain complete the phrase automatically. What's the first word that comes to mind after hearing "Instant..."? For many, especially those who've experienced college dorm life or need a quick meal, a specific noodle dish will pop into their head.

2. Consider the Category: The word "instant" is frequently associated with food products designed for quick preparation. Think about items in a grocery store aisle: instant oatmeal, instant mashed potatoes, and the answer to this clue.

3. Use the Crossings: If you're stuck between a few options, the crossing clues are your best friend. If you have a letter, say an 'M' in the middle, it can quickly confirm the answer and eliminate other possibilities like "coffee" or "replay."

Background Context

The answer to this clue refers to a food that has had a massive global impact. Instant noodles were invented in 1958 by Momofuku Ando of the Japanese company Nissin Foods. His goal was to create a long-lasting, easy-to-prepare food to help feed the population of post-war Japan. The product, particularly in its cup form, became a worldwide phenomenon, valued for its convenience and low cost.

Conclusion

"Instant ___" is a perfect example of an accessible, entry-level crossword clue. It tests common knowledge rather than obscure trivia or tricky wordplay. Its familiarity provides a satisfying and confident start for solvers, helping them build momentum to tackle the rest of the puzzle.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think of a quick and easy meal, often found in a cup or packet.
2. Hint 2: This food is a type of noodle soup.
3. Hint 3: It's a staple in Japanese cuisine, but the instant version is popular worldwide.
4. Hint 4: The brand names Maruchan and Top Ramen are famous for this product.