The evolution of gluten-free noodles

Date

03.28.18

CategoryFood

Mixian could replace traditional udon or ramen.

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THE GIST

Rice noodles known as mixian (traditionally from the Chinese province of Yunnan), are increasingly being featured on menus in restaurants across the U.S. such as at South of the Clouds and Little Tong Noodle Shop in New York City and Z&Y in San Francisco.

EXPERT INSIGHT

“These noodles are made with amylose and other types of resistant starch, which we know can contain forms of gut-friendly prebiotic fiber,” says Vancouver-based Krista Scott-Dixon, Ph.D., director of curriculum at Precision Nutrition. While they’re not necessarily healthier than udon or ramen, mixian are gluten-free and can be a great alternative for people who may not tolerate other grains well, she adds.

THE BOTTOM LINE

"Mixian noodles are a great vehicle for infinite preparations of hearty, healthful meals,” says chef Simone Tong of Little Tong Noodle Shop. They can be purchased in packages at Chinese grocery stores and boiled in water like pasta. Try them with shrimp, coconut mint sauce, and pickled green chili for a dish that’s loaded with vitamins A, C, K, and packed with fiber and protein.

Photo: Getty Images

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