From hakka to chilli garlic and several other varieties pop into our heads when we think of noodles. It could be a delicious treat for your taste buds, but maybe not so much for your health. Since noodles are generally made with maida (or all-purpose flour), it is a little hard to believe that they can be healthy too.
Noodles were invented some 4,000 years ago in China. Archaeological evidence suggests that earthen ware extracted from excavation sites of Chinese civilization had remains of present-day noodles in it. The idea of sprucing them up with spices, condiments, vegetables, and meat emerged much later. It can be dunked in soup or tossed in a wok. To make life easier for all health-conscious peeps out there, here are some ways, in which you can give your noodles a healthy spin.
1. Zucchini Noodles
Thin, long strips of zucchini are cut out to form the long strands of noodles. The zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable with no saturated fats or cholesterol that makes it ideal to be made into noodles. Spice it up with some grated ginger, minced garlic and soy sauce. Add some peanut butter to lend it a nutty flavour and dig into this healthy bowl for dinner.
2. Soba Noodles
This Japanese noodle variety is inherently healthy and tasty. Thinner in size than regular noodles, soba noodles are made with buckwheat. Buckwheat is considered to be good for heart health and blood sugar. The noodles are mixed with honey, rice vinegar, peanut butter and green onions. Add some bell peppers and garlic and amp up the protein with shredded and boiled chicken.
3. Mung Bean Shrimp Noodles
Mung bean (or green gram) is often used as the base for noodles to make them healthier. The mung bean noodles are generally transparent and are known as glass noodles. The thin noodles are high in nutrients like iron as well as rich in antioxidants. The noodles are paired with pan-seared shrimps and spruced up with peppercorns, Chinese black vinegar, and more.
4. Shirataki Lemon Garlic Shrimp Noodles
The thin and white noodles come in long strands and are rightfully called the miracle noodles. Since they contain very few calories, they are also known as zero-calorie noodles and are considered healthy. They also help in losing weight and are good for cholesterol too. Pair them with a light lemon and garlic-flavoured shrimp mix and enjoy a light dinner.
5. Low-Calorie Singapore Noodles
Made with the goodness of egg noodles, this variety is low in calories and high in taste, making them ideal for dinner. Add stir-fried vegetables of your choice like bell peppers, onions, carrots and more. Flavour with a mild curry powder and spices. Toss it all together and slurp on this heavenly treat.