Chinese Rice And Noodles - Spicy Way To Eat Rice And Noodles

Most often people do not understand that when it comes to changing a recipe into a healthy one, one of the points to remember in mind is to substitute healthy constituents for unhealthy ones. Hence when a recipe involves say white rice or noodles, substitute it with brown rice, or whole wheat noodles.

Noodles are basically composed of carbohydrates and can be made from either wheat or rice. Although carbohydrates are necessary for the body, excesses consumption of carbohydrates are converted into sugar and if not properly utilized can be deposited as fats in the body. However noodles when eaten in the right quantities or proportions are not harmful.

Selecting Noodles - Important Tips Before Cooking Noodles

Before selecting your choice of noodles consider the ingredients that the noodles are made from and preferably choose high-quality multigrain or brown rice or whole wheat noodles.

Noodles made from refined wheat or rice flour are not healthy options as most of the nutrients are stripped away as there is lack of the grain germ or bran. The same rule applies for rice. White rice is devoid of its essential nutrients that are found in abundance in brown or wild rice. Combine adequate protein and essentials fats along with your intake of rice or noodles and include plenty of vegetables such as carrots, legumes, common pea, mushrooms etc. depending upon your taste or preference.

Rice or noodles, when consumed alone, are believed to elevate blood glucose levels due to their high glycemic value. If you are on a weight loss diet or plan remember to opt only for those noodles that are lower on the glycemic index or have a lower glycemic load. Combine high fiber or extra fiber along with rice or noodles that can help in reducing the glycemic value of your meal.

Some popular types of noodles are made from the following ingredients:

Noodles made from Wheat Flour - The Japanese udon and some types of Chinese noodles fall under this category. For example the Chinese chop suey and Chinese dumpling noodles are made from whole wheat flour and eggs and their nutritional value is quite alike pasta.
Noodles made from Buckwheat - The Japanese soba is a definitive example of this family. These noodles are usually brownish gray in appearance but in certain cases are also available in green versions. Buckwheat flour is believed to be rich in protein, and makes a splendid choice for vegetarians.
Noodles made from Rice - Chinese rice noodles and rice vermicelli fall under this category; rice noodles are popular across South East Asia and are widely available in assorted forms. They are tasty in soups and cold salads but unfortunately, are loaded with starch and low in other nutrients.

Submitted on January 16, 2014