Top 5 Brown Rice Noodles Recipes

Brown rice noodles offer a tempting gateway into a world of culinary possibilities, where health and flavor converge in perfect harmony. Unlike their white rice counterparts, these noodles boast a delightful nuttiness and a chewy texture that elevates even the simplest dishes. Embarking on a journey with brown rice noodles is an invitation to unleash your inner chef and explore a spectrum of flavors, from savory stir-fries to comforting soups and vibrant salads.

Forget bland noodles relegated to the back of the pantry. Brown rice noodles are a versatile ingredient ready to transform your meals. Their unique texture holds sauces beautifully, while their subtle flavor complements a diverse range of ingredients, allowing you to create dishes that are both satisfying and flavorful.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary exploration, this blog post will serve as your compass, guiding you through the world of brown rice noodles. We’ll unveil delectable recipes that tantalize your taste buds, explore the health benefits of brown rice, and offer tips and tricks to ensure your noodle creations are consistently delicious.

So, join us on this culinary adventure as we unlock the secrets of brown rice noodles and discover a world of healthy and flavorful possibilities. Your kitchen is about to become a haven of culinary delight, and your taste buds are in for a treat!

Top Brown Rice Noodles Recipes

1. Pad Thai with Brown Rice Noodles

Pad Thai, the quintessential Thai dish, is a symphony of flavors and textures, with its sweet, salty, and savory notes tantalizing the taste buds. But did you know you can elevate this classic dish to even greater heights by using brown rice noodles instead of the traditional white rice noodles?

Brown rice noodles not only add a delightful nuttiness and chewy texture to the dish, but they also boast a wealth of health benefits. Compared to white rice noodles, they are packed with more fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a perfect choice for health-conscious individuals.

Here’s a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe for Pad Thai with Brown Rice Noodles:

Ingredients:

• 140g brown rice noodles
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
• 150g boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup tamarind water
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Cook the brown rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and shallot, and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the bean sprouts and scallions. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Push the ingredients to one side of the pan. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Add the cooked noodles, tamarind water, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped peanuts and lime wedges.

Benefits of Using Brown Rice Noodles:

• Increased fiber content: Brown rice noodles are an excellent source of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
• Enhanced nutritional value: Compared to white rice noodles, they are richer in vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, and iron.
• Lower glycemic index: Their lower glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes sustained energy.
• Nutty flavor and chewy texture: Brown rice noodles add a unique depth of flavor and texture to the Pad Thai, making it even more satisfying.

Tips for Making Perfect Pad Thai

• Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the ingredients. This will help prevent the noodles from sticking.
• Don’t overcook the noodles. They should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to them.
• Add the tamarind water, fish sauce, and brown sugar gradually, tasting the Pad Thai as you go to adjust the seasonings to your preference.
• Get creative with your toppings! You can add other vegetables like carrots, green beans, or broccoli. You can also replace the chicken with tofu or shrimp.

Embrace the culinary adventure and let your creativity flow. With brown rice noodles as your canvas, you can prepare a Pad Thai that is not only flavorful and satisfying but also packed with health benefits.

2. Vegan Brown Rice Noodle Soup

When the chill sets in and you crave a comforting and nourishing meal, look no further than vegan brown rice noodle soup. This soul-warming dish is not only bursting with flavor but also packed with a wealth of health benefits, making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking a delicious and healthy meal.

The fragrant broth, simmered with a medley of vegetables and protein-rich ingredients like tofu or tempeh, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that tantalize the senses. The brown rice noodles, with their delightful chewiness and subtle nuttiness, serve as the foundation of this comforting dish, ensuring both satisfaction and sustained energy.

Here’s a detailed guide to preparing a delicious and nutritious vegan brown rice noodle soup:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1 package firm tofu, cubed and pan-fried
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 8 oz brown rice noodles
• Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the vegetable broth, water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add the tofu, broccoli, and mushrooms. Simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the brown rice noodles and spinach. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Brown Rice Noodle Soup:

• High protein content: This soup is packed with protein from the tofu or tempeh, making it a satisfying and energy-boosting meal.
• Abundant vitamins and minerals: The vegetables in the soup are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
• Digestion-aiding properties: The broth and ginger in the soup help to aid digestion and soothe the stomach.
• Low in calories and fat: This soup is a great option for those looking for a healthy and filling meal that is low in calories and fat.

Tips for Making Perfect Vegan Brown Rice Noodle Soup:

• You can use any type of vegetables that you like in this soup. Other good options include zucchini, bell peppers, and green beans.
• If you don’t have tofu or tempeh, you can use another protein source, such as lentils, chickpeas, or black beans.
• To make the soup even more flavorful, you can add a tablespoon of miso paste or a splash of sriracha sauce.
• Serve the soup with a side of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Embrace the warmth and nourishment of this delectable vegan brown rice noodle soup. With its flavorful broth, protein-rich ingredients, and abundance of vegetables, it’s a dish that both your taste buds and your body will thank you for.

3. Stir-Fries with Brown Rice Noodles

In the fast-paced world we live in, finding time for healthy and delicious meals can be a challenge. But fear not, for stir-fries have emerged as culinary champions, offering a quick and easy solution to satisfy your hunger without sacrificing taste or nutrition. And when you pair them with brown rice noodles, you unlock a world of flavorful possibilities that are both convenient and good for you.

Brown rice noodles, with their delightful nuttiness and chewy texture, provide the perfect base for stir-fries. They absorb the vibrant flavors of your chosen sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying and flavorful experience. Moreover, their low-fat content and abundance of fiber make them a healthy choice, ensuring you feel good about your meal.

Here’s a customizable stir-fry recipe featuring brown rice noodles, inviting you to unleash your inner chef and create a dish tailored to your preferences:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz brown rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup snap peas
• 1 cup cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp (optional)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. If using chicken, tofu, or shrimp, add them to the pan and cook until heated through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch (if using). Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables and protein.
5. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
6. Add the cooked brown rice noodles and toss everything together until well combined.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional).

Experiment with Endless Flavor Combinations:

The beauty of stir-fries lies in their versatility. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of vegetables, proteins, and sauces. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Vegetables: Try adding other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, or bok choy.
• Proteins: You can use any type of protein you like, such as beef, pork, fish, or lentils.
• Sauces: Explore different sauces like teriyaki, peanut sauce, or sweet and sour sauce.

Health Benefits of Brown Rice Noodle Stir-Fries:

• Low in fat: Stir-fries are typically cooked with very little oil, making them a low-fat and heart-healthy option.
• Abundance of fresh ingredients: Stir-fries are packed with fresh vegetables, which are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Customizable: You can easily tailor your stir-fry to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
• Quick and easy to prepare: Stir-fries are a great option for busy weeknights when you need a quick and healthy meal.

4. Cold Brown Rice Noodle Salad

When the sun is shining and you crave a light and refreshing meal, look no further than a cold brown rice noodle salad. This dish is a symphony of vibrant flavors and textures, featuring crunchy vegetables, a flavorful dressing, and optional protein elements like grilled chicken or shrimp, making it the perfect choice for a summer lunch or a satisfying side dish.

The foundation of this salad is, of course, the brown rice noodles. Their subtle nuttiness and chewy texture provide a delightful base that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Moreover, their versatility allows you to customize the salad to your own taste, adding a variety of vegetables, proteins, and dressings to create a unique and flavorful dish.

Here’s a recipe for a delicious and refreshing cold brown rice noodle salad:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz brown rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup toasted peanuts

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sriracha sauce (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ginger, grated

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice noodles, cucumber, bell peppers, carrots, red onion, cilantro, mint, and peanuts.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sriracha sauce (if using), and ginger.
3. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat everything evenly.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop.

Advantages of Cold Brown Rice Noodle Salads:

• Portability: Cold brown rice noodle salads are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or packing for lunch. They travel well and don’t require any heating or cooking.
• Ease of customization: This salad recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to add other vegetables, proteins, and dressings to create a dish that fits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Suitable for a healthy vegan diet: With a few simple substitutions, like replacing the honey with agave nectar and using a vegan protein source, this salad can be easily adapted to a vegan diet.
• Refreshing and healthy: This salad is a great source of complex carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.

5. Brown Rice Noodle Bowls

Brown rice noodle bowls have emerged as a culinary haven for those seeking a balanced, flavorful, and customizable meal. This versatile dish acts as a blank canvas, inviting you to unleash your culinary creativity and assemble a symphony of textures and flavors that cater to your individual preferences and dietary needs.

The foundation of this delectable creation lies in the brown rice noodles. Packed with nutty flavor and a satisfyingly chewy texture, they provide the perfect base for a diverse array of toppings. From roasted vegetables and marinated tofu to poached eggs and savory sauces, the possibilities are endless, encouraging you to explore and create a dish that is uniquely your own.

Here’s a basic recipe for a brown rice noodle bowl, ready to be transformed into your culinary masterpiece:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz brown rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 1 cup roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, etc.)
• 1/2 cup marinated tofu or tempeh (optional)
• 1 poached egg (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or almonds
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sesame seeds (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp sriracha sauce (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ginger, grated

Instructions:

1. Divide the cooked brown rice noodles into two bowls.
2. Top each bowl with your desired toppings, such as roasted vegetables, marinated tofu or tempeh, poached eggs, chopped peanuts or almonds, and cilantro.
3. Drizzle each bowl with your chosen sauce.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds (optional) and serve immediately.

Benefits of Brown Rice Noodle Bowls:

• Balanced nutrient profile: Brown rice noodles offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while the toppings provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and protein.
• Customizable: This dish allows you to personalize it to fit your dietary needs and preferences. You can choose your favorite toppings, sauces, and protein sources to create a bowl that is perfect for you.
• Cater to individual dietary needs: Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or following a specific diet plan, brown rice noodle bowls can be easily adapted to accommodate your needs.
• Quick and easy to prepare: This dish can be assembled in just minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
• Satisfying and flavorful: The combination of textures and flavors in a brown rice noodle bowl is sure to leave you feeling happy and satisfied.

FAQs

1. Are brown rice noodles healthier?

Yes, brown rice noodles are generally considered to be healthier than white rice noodles. They are made from whole grains, which means they retain more of the bran and germ of the rice, making them a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. White rice noodles, on the other hand, are made from refined rice, which has had the bran and germ removed, leaving them with less nutrients.

Here’s a comparison of the nutrients in 1 cup (158 grams) of cooked brown rice noodles and white rice noodles:

As you can see, brown rice noodles have significantly more fiber, protein, iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6 than white rice noodles. They also have a lower glycemic index, which means they will cause your blood sugar levels to rise more slowly, helping you feel full longer.

2. How are brown rice noodles made?

Brown rice noodles are made from whole-grain brown rice flour. The flour is mixed with water and then extruded through a die to form noodles. The noodles are then cooked and dried.

Here are the basic steps in making brown rice noodles:

1. Grind whole-grain brown rice into a fine flour.
2. Mix the flour with water to form a dough.
3. Extrude the dough through a die to form noodles.
4. Cook the noodles in boiling water.
5. Dry the noodles on racks or in a dehydrator.

3. How many calories are in brown noodles?

One cup of cooked brown rice noodles contains about 220 calories. This may vary depending on the specific brand and recipe.

4. What are brown noodles called?

Brown rice noodles have different names depending on the region and culture. Some common names include:

• Mie (Indonesian)
• Bún gạo lứt (Vietnamese)
• Kway teow (Cantonese)
• Somen (Japanese)
• Dangmyeon (Korean)
• He fen (Mandarin)
• Idiyappam (South Indian)

Conclusion

Brown rice noodles have emerged as a culinary revelation, offering a delicious and versatile gateway into a world of flavorful and healthy possibilities. Their unique texture and subtle nuttiness elevate even the simplest dishes, while their rich nutritional profile makes them a perfect choice for health-conscious individuals.

From comforting soups and vibrant salads to quick stir-fries and customizable noodle bowls, the versatility of brown rice noodles knows no bounds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this incredible ingredient empowers you to unleash your inner creativity and craft dishes that tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body.

So, embark on a culinary adventure with brown rice noodles as your guide. Embrace the warmth of a comforting Pad Thai, experiment with the endless flavor combinations of stir-fries, or create a refreshing and healthy salad for a light meal. With each bite, discover the unique flavors and textures that brown rice noodles have to offer, and unlock a world of culinary possibilities that will leave you feeling satisfied and inspired.

Remember, the key is to embrace your creativity and explore the diverse culinary landscape with open arms. Brown rice noodles are your blank canvas, ready to be transformed into a masterpiece of flavor and health.