Dive into the world of kelp noodles, a unique, gluten-free alternative to traditional noodles. This blog post will introduce you to the deep-sea treasure that is kelp noodles, their taste, texture, and how they fit into various diets, including keto and paleo. Learn how to prepare them, where to buy them, and why these sea vegetable noodles are a healthy food that you’ll love.
What are Kelp Noodles?
Kelp noodles, also known as sea tangle noodles or seaweed noodles, are a virtually calorie-free noodle alternative made from brown sea kelp seaweed. While they look a lot like traditional pasta or glass noodles, kelp noodles are unique in that they are made entirely from seaweed and contain only trace amounts of sodium alginate to bind them.
These noodles contain very few digestible carbohydrates and calories, making them a go-to for low-carb, keto, and paleo diets. They are also naturally gluten-free. While they may seem too good to be true, these seaweed noodles do take some getting used to in terms of taste and texture.
Kelp Noodles vs Regular Noodles: What’s the Difference?
Unlike regular noodles made from wheat or rice, kelp noodles are made from seaweed, making them gluten-free and low in carbohydrates and calories. They don’t taste like regular noodles but instead have a crunchy texture that can be softened through various cooking methods.
Additionally, unlike pasta and other types of noodles, kelp noodles don’t need to be cooked. They can be eaten raw, straight out of the pack, or lightly tossed in warm water to slightly soften them.
What Do Kelp Noodles Taste Like?
Kelp noodles have a very neutral taste, much like glass noodles or shirataki noodles made from konjac. Because they don’t have a strong taste of their own, they absorb the flavors of whatever they’re cooked with, much like a zucchini noodle or rice noodle. Despite being made from seaweed, kelp noodles don’t taste like the sea. They are also crunchy, a texture that some people love.
How Are Kelp Noodles Made?
Kelp noodles are made from three natural ingredients: kelp (a type of seaweed), water, and sodium alginate (a seaweed-derived substance used to give the noodles their shape). These ingredients are mixed, then shaped into noodles and preserved. The process results in a noodle that is raw and ready to eat straight from the pack.
How to Prepare Kelp Noodles?
Preparing kelp noodles is simple. First, rinse the noodles in warm water. To soften the noodles, you can soak them in warm water with a little lemon juice or baking soda. Once they’ve reached your desired texture, you can add the noodles to any dish. They work well in salads, stir-fries, or any dish where you might use regular or glass noodles.
The Art of Softening Kelp Noodles
While some people enjoy the crunchy texture of kelp noodles, others prefer them softer. To soften kelp noodles, first rinse them in warm water. Then, soak them in warm water with a tablespoon of baking soda for about 20-30 minutes. Rinse them again before adding them to your dish.
Delicious Kelp Noodle Recipes
Kelp noodles are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. A simple kelp noodle salad with a sesame dressing is a great place to start. You can also use them in a stir-fry, much like you would with ramen noodles. For a keto-friendly option, try a creamy avocado kelp noodle dish.
Health Benefits of Kelp Noodles
Kelp noodles are a treasure trove of health benefits. They are low in calories, carbohydrates, and gluten-free, making them a great choice for those on keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets. Kelp noodles are also high in iodine, a nutrient necessary for proper thyroid function. Additionally, they are a source of sodium alginate, which has been found to help remove heavy metals from the body.
Where to Buy Kelp Noodles?
Kelp noodles can be found at health food stores, some larger supermarkets, and online. Brands such as Sea Tangle and Gold Mine offer kelp noodles in a variety of sizes. They can usually be found in the Asian or gluten-free section of these stores.
Why I Love These Noodles
Kelp noodles are a fantastic addition to any diet. They’re versatile, delicious, and packed with health benefits. They’re easy to prepare and are a unique way to add some variety to your meals. Plus, they’re a great conversation starter at dinner parties!
Key Takeaways
- Kelp noodles are a type of noodle made from the sea vegetable, kelp, and are a form of brown seaweed.
- Unlike regular noodles, kelp noodles are gluten-free and low in carbohydrates and calories.
- Kelp noodles have a neutral taste and a crunchy texture that can be softened.
- Kelp noodles are made from three natural ingredients: kelp, water, and sodium alginate.
- Kelp noodles can be prepared easily by rinsing in warm water and can be softened by soaking them in warm water with a little lemon juice or baking soda.
- Kelp noodles can be used in a variety of dishes including salads and stir-fries.
- Kelp noodles are low in calories, carbohydrates, and gluten-free, making them a great choice for those on keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets. They are also high in iodine and a source of sodium alginate.
- Kelp noodles can be found at health food stores, larger supermarkets, and online from brands such as Sea Tangle and Gold Mine.
- Kelp noodles are a versatile, delicious, and healthful addition to any diet.
