Gluten is a combination of proteins found naturally in cereal grains like wheat, rye, barley, and crossbreeds of these grains.
Gluten is the component that gives shape, strength, and texture to grain products.
What is Gluten-Free Noodle?
A gluten-free noodle is made without wheat or gluten ingredients; here, corn, rice, or even potato flour replaces the gluten products.
Some types of gluten-free Asia noodles aren’t just gluten-free but still try to retain the natural taste of a gluten noodle.
So, they are not just healthy for those with gluten intolerance but also taste delicious.
As we progress in this article, we will learn about the different types of gluten-free Asian noodles. But first, let’s take a look at why people go for gluten-free noodles.
Why Do People Go for Gluten-Free Noodles?
The thing is, there are three reasons people go for gluten-free noodles.
One is allergy; people diagnosed with celiac disease are allergic to gluten products as it affects them strongly.
Moreover, the disease cannot be cured but only managed by consuming gluten-free food. Another reason is intolerance.
Some people experience a less severe reaction to gluten. But then, that impacts their decision as it causes them discomfort. Also, some people go gluten-free because it’s a lifestyle for them.
According to the FDA (Food and drug administration), gluten-free noodles contain no more than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.
Types of Gluten-Free Asia Noodles
The appeal of these different types of gluten-free noodles isn’t just limited to those on gluten-free diets either.
The types of gluten-free Asia noodles to be explored in this article are:
1. Shirataki Noodles
Shirataki noodles are one of the different types of gluten-free Asia noodles out there, and it has its root strongly in Japanese cuisine.
Made from the starch of a tuber vegetable that looks like yam, the noodles are full of fiber and hence really satisfying.
The starch is mixed with water and limewater and then minced to form shirataki noodles.
On their own, the noodle isn’t so tasty, but just like most types of gluten-free Asian noodles, the Shirataki noodles taste delicious when topped with veggies and proteins or when mixed in a sauce or other ingredients.
One can get these noodles from major grocery stores or health food stores.
2. Soba Noodles
Another gluten-free Asia noodle type is Soba Noodles, made from buckwheat flour and water. They are thin and enriched with proteins and fiber.
It is worth noting that buckwheat on its own is gluten-free, and the safe Soba noodles are usually labeled as 100% buckwheat soba.
So, always check the label to ensure that what you are about to purchase is gluten-free, as some Soba Noodles sometimes have a small quantity of regular wheat flour.
The noodles have amazing flavors; they are slurry and taste great and can be enjoyed in hot or cold dishes.
3. Cellophane Noodles
Among the types of gluten-free Asian noodles is the cellophane noodle.
Cellophane noodles are made from vegetable starch comprising of mung bean, potato, and sweet potato, and they also come in different varieties.
One type of cellophane noodle consumed so well in Asia cuisine is the glass noodle.
The glass noodle is made from mung beans and looks transparent. It is chewy and has a tepid flavor.
Because it can absorb ingredients easily, it tastes terrific when used in a saucy dish.
Another type of cellophane noodle is dangmyeon, which is made from sweet potato starch.
This noodle is not as absorbent as glass noodles but also tastes nice and is used as an ingredient in stir-fries.
4. Rice Noodles
When it comes to Asian Cuisine, Rice is considered an everyday staple; little wonder then that some cultures would make noodles out of them.
Made from rice flour and water, this is one of the different types of gluten-free Asian noodles made predominantly from rice.
Although, it is advisable to check the ingredients list carefully as some of them might contain wheat flour.
There are different types of gluten-free Asian rice noodles ranging in freshness, thickness, and shape.
They can be used in stir fry and soup dishes. The choice of what and how to consume this gluten-free noodle boils down to you, and don’t forget that these noodles cook really fast. Hence, it is eminent that you watch out so you don’t overcook.
5. Kelp Noodles
Kelp noodles are among the types of gluten-free Asian noodles, and amazingly, it is also low in carbs and calories.
As the name suggests, kelp noodles are made from kelp, a kind of seaweed. Amazing, I tell you, that something like this could be made from seaweed.
Just like the Shirataki noodles, this noodle is also flavorless. They are crunchy and translucent. The noodles can be cooked in stir-fries and soups or eaten raw in salads.
Conclusion
For some people, practicing a gluten-free diet seems daunting; some do this because they are trying to manage celiac disease, and others handle other types of medical conditions associated with gluten.
While for some, a gluten-free diet is a matter of choice and trend.
Nevertheless, for lovers of noodles, be rest assured that there are different types of gluten-free Asian noodles; some are chewy and taste just as good as regular noodles.
For others, you just need to garnish them with lots of vegetables and proteins to enjoy them. So, no loss there. Go ahead and enjoy gluten-free Asia noodles.
