Noodles are to Asia what pasta is to Italy; the basis of many regional dishes for centuries. There are hundreds of Asian noodle varieties in all manner of shapes, colors, flavors and textures. Noodles are supposed to be served long and uncut, the length of the noodle symbolizing longevity. Noodles are classified as fresh or dried and their preparation varies significantly depending on the type of starch used to produce them.
Dried mung bean vermicelli noodles are sometimes called cellophane, glass or jelly noodles, and are made from the starch of mung beans. They have more of a slippery texture than rice vermicelli and are best used in coconut-based soups or salads. They come bundled together, so use kitchen scissors to separate the dry noodles. Soften in a bowl of boiling water for a few minutes for salads or add directly to soups.
Fresh rice noodles, made from ground rice and water, are sold in various thicknesses. Use the thin noodles in soups, the thick noodles in stir-fries and the sheets cut to size. They are best bought fresh off the shelf in Asian grocery stores and used within seven days. Rinse briefly in warm water to separate. Cook for only a few minutes to heat through. Do not refrigerate or purchase these from the fridge section, as they will be impossible to separate.
Dried rice stick noodles are also called pad Thai noodles. These thin, flat translucent noodles are made from ground rice and water. Soak in boiling water until almost tender or 'al dente', drain, then add to stir-fries or soups. These noodles absorb flavors well.
Dried rice vermicelli noodles are almost hair like. These delicate thin noodles are used in soups, salads and stir-fries. Rinse or soak in cold water until soft. Drain. Add to the dish a few minutes before serving to heat through.
Fresh hokkien noodles are wheat noodles enriched with egg and sold fresh or in vacuum-sealed packages in the fridge section of the supermarket. Hokkien vary in thickness from very thin spaghetti (best for soups or salads) to thick fettuccine (ideal for stir-fries). As they are wheat based, they need to be placed into boiling water until just soft before being added to the dish. They are perfect for stir-fries because they don't break easily.
Chow mein noodles are sold fresh or dried. Like hokkien, they are wheat-based and egg-enriched; however they resemble long strands of very thin spaghetti. Place in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Drain immediately to prevent over-cooking then add to stir-fries at the last minute.
Dried egg noodles are virtually dried hokkien noodles. Cook in boiling water until just tender. These noodles are best used in soups or wet dishes because they have a tendency to break when stir-fried.
Variety of noodles
