A Guide To Noodles

Right, Mob. We’ve already given you the lowdown on the different types of grains, so it only seemed right we take you through the different types of noodles, too. That’s right, the world of noodles is vast. Whether you’re stumped for ways to use up those last few strands of rice vermicelli, haven’t got a clue what soba noodles are or feel like shaking up your noodle stash with the addition of some good ol’ udon, consider this your handy little cheat sheet to all things noods. No – not that kind.

What is it?

Often confused for glass or cellophane noodles, rice noodles are up there in being one of the most popular types of noodles about. Made from rice flour and water, they're pretty much a blank slate when it comes to flavour, making them a great base for bolder ingredients. Appearance-wise, they can vary. Some rice noodles are thin and delicate, while others are a lot thicker and soft to eat.

What should I eat it with?

As versatile as they come, rice noodles can be served hot or cold (once cooked) and feature in anything from stir fries to noodle salads, and spring rolls to soups.

Check out this Coconut "Chicken" Noodle Soup.

What is it?

Rice noodles, but a lot thinner. These fine strands of noodly goodness are a variety of rice noodle and are ridiculously easy to cook up. Not to mention, they're pretty much the definition of customisable.

What should I eat it with?

Just like your standard rice noodles, rice vermicelli are great for a whole host of dishes. We especially like transforming them into a tasty salad, but they're probably most known for making a smashing dinner of Singapore Noodles.

Check out this Crispy Chicken Thigh Noodle Salad.

What is it?

Soba noodles are roughly the same thickness as our good friend – spag – and are made from a combination of buckwheat and wheat flour. In terms of flavour, they're nuttier than most other noodles and even have a certain earthiness about them.

What should I eat it with?

Typically, these guys are served cold alongside a delicious dipping sauce or hot within a soup.

Check out this Tahini Noodles With Smacked Cucumbers.

What is it?

The perfect vessel for soaking up flavour, udon noodles are a favourite here at Mob. Thicker than your average noodle, they tend to come flat or rounded.

What should I eat it with?

Traditionally, udon noodles are used in dashi-based broth dishes. But we also like them stir fried or mixed with a cracking combination of pastes/seasonings.

Check out this Miso Pea Pesto Udon.

What is it?

Don't let the name fool you, Mob. Although hailed as "glass noodles," these thread-like noodle strands are often opaque white or brown in colour depending on the type of starch used to make them (mung beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes, or tapioca). Of course, there are examples that are less cloudy and more transparent, too.

What should I eat it with?

Glass noodles are brilliant as they can be served hot, tepid, or cold. They're just as good loaded into summer rolls as they are stir-fried with meat and veggies.

Check out this Sticky Pork Noodle Bowls.

What is it?

Long and thin, these wheat noodles originate from China. Used to make some of the nation's favourite dishes, lo mein noodles are the egg noodles you reach for in the supermarket on the reg.

What should I eat it with?

Ideal for stir-frying, you can throw in everything from meat to vegetables to plant-based alternatives like tofu.

Check out this Beef Chow Mein.

What is it?

A non-negotiable as far as noodle varieties go, ramen noodles are among the most popular types. And chances are, you'll already have a packet lurking in the back of your kitchen cupboard. Wheat-based, pale yellow in colour and typically thin, they're firm to the touch and tend to come in a wavy shape.

What should I eat it with?

A classic. Ramen noodles go well with... er, ramen.

Check out this Crispy Tofu Miso Ramen.