Bean-thread noodles, also known as cellophane noodles or glass noodles, are a versatile ingredient in Asian cuisine. These transparent, silky noodles are commonly used in dishes from China, Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. In this article, we’ll explore what bean-thread noodles are, their nutritional value, how to buy and cook them, and some delicious recipes to try.
What Are Bean-Thread Noodles?
Bean-thread noodles are made from plant-based starch, traditionally mung bean starch. They may also contain tapioca or sweet potato starch. You might find them labeled as mung bean noodles, glass noodles, Korean glass noodles (japchae), saifun, or harusame. Despite different names, they all refer to the same type of noodle.
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Are Bean-Thread Noodles Good for You?
Bean-thread noodles are gluten-free and can be a good option for people with gluten sensitivities. However, they are not particularly nutritious on their own. They are used in small quantities to add visual and textural interest to dishes. They are lower in fat and calories compared to regular pasta but do not provide significant amounts of fiber or protein. They do contain some B vitamins and minerals.
How to Buy and Cook Bean-Thread Noodles
You can find bean-thread noodles in natural-food stores, Asian groceries, and the international foods aisle in supermarkets. These noodles are usually sold in 5-8 ounce boxes, divided into 2-ounce bundles. When uncooked, they are tough and almost impossible to break by hand. To cook them, you can choose between two methods.
The first method is to presoak the noodles in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes. Then, cut them into shorter lengths, immerse them in boiling water, simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, and drain. The second method involves immersing the bundles of noodles in cold water in a saucepan, bringing to a boil, removing from heat, covering, and letting them sit for 3 to 5 minutes until done. Drain, rinse briefly under cool water, and cut them into manageable lengths.
Ways to Use Bean-Thread Noodles in Cooking
Bean-thread noodles are loved for their silky texture and transparent appearance. They work best in dishes with flavorful sauces or well-seasoned soups. Here are some popular ways to incorporate them into your cooking:
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Team with mushrooms: Combine bean-thread noodles with earthy mushrooms like shiitakes or oyster mushrooms for a delicious combination. Try the recipe for Spicy Garlic Shiitake Mushrooms and Glass Noodles.
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Add to stir-fries: Toss cooked bean-thread noodles into stir-fried vegetables such as snow peas or bok choy for a satisfying crunch. Add them at the last minute to avoid overcooking. Give Vegetable Stir-Fry Mung Bean Noodles or Filipino-Style Stir Fried Cellophane Noodles a try.
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Get bowled over: Add bean-thread noodles to your noodle bowls for a light and refreshing addition. Thai Ginger & Garlic Noodle Bowls and Red Hot Miso Noodle Bowl are great examples.
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Incorporate into soups: Enhance brothy Asian-style vegetable soups or miso soups by adding cooked cellophane noodles at the last minute. Asian Vegetable and Glass Noodle Soup is a comforting choice.
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Curried flavors: Bean-thread noodles absorb flavors wonderfully, making them a perfect match for curry seasonings. Try the tasty Curried Coconut Bean-Thread Noodles.
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Use in cold dishes and salads: Combine bean-thread noodles with crunchy vegetables and sesame-ginger dressing for a refreshing cold dish. Thai Glass Noodle Salad is a delightful option.
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Summer rolls: Use bean-thread noodles in Vietnamese-style summer rolls along with rice-flour wrappers. Pair them with Spicy Peanut Sauce for a flavorful treat.
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A Clay Pot Specialty: Delve into the Southeast Asian classic, Clay Pot Glass Noodles, for a truly satisfying meal.
Recipes Using Bean-Thread Noodles
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If you need some inspiration, here are a few recipes that showcase the versatility of bean-thread noodles:
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Quick Asian Noodle Bowls: These broth-y bowls with bean-thread noodles are perfect for a quick and tasty Asian-style dish.
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Vietnamese Bean-Thread Noodles with Tomatoes & Cabbage: This vegan dish combines fresh tomatoes, basil, and cabbage for a light and flavorful meal.
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Orange Bean-Thread Noodle Salad with Crisp Vegetables: Enjoy this salad with an orange-infused sesame-ginger dressing as a side dish to complement your favorite tofu or tempeh recipe.
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Korean Glass Noodle Veggie Stir-Fry: This quick and easy stir-fry recipe features bean-thread noodles and a variety of veggies for a satisfying meal.
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Vegan Pad Woon Sen: This Thai classic is given a vegan twist with shredded vegetables, glass noodles, and a sweet and salty sauce.
Bean-thread noodles offer a delightful change of pace with their unique texture and ability to absorb flavors. Explore the diverse range of dishes you can create with these versatile noodles and enjoy the flavors of Asian cuisine in your own kitchen!
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Source: https://t-tees.com
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