Kelp Noodles: The New Superfood? Benefits, Taste, and Where to Buy

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Are you looking for a low-carb alternative to pasta?

Kelp noodles are a great alternative to pasta because they’re low in carbs and high in fiber. They’re also gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about them, including their health benefits and how to prepare them.

Kelp noodles with sprouts recipe

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Get to Know the Low-Carb, Fiber-Rich Alternative: Kelp Noodles

Kelp noodles are a type of food made from kelp, a type of seaweed found in the water. They are usually sold in a package and are composed mainly of water and kelp starch. Kelp noodles come in different varieties and are pretty famous as a substitute for traditional noodles. They are a unique alternative to traditional noodles that are low in carbohydrates and fat and contain a lot of fiber.

How are Kelp Noodles Prepared?

Preparing kelp noodles is easy and straightforward. They come in a package and are usually found in strips. To prepare them, you need to follow these steps:

  • Open the package and remove the excess water by setting them in a colander.
  • Rinse the noodles under cool water to remove any excess salt.
  • If the noodles are too long, you can cut them into smaller pieces.
  • Store the noodles in cool water until you are ready to use them.

How to Cook with Kelp Noodles?

Kelp noodles (a delicious sprouts recipe here) are pretty versatile and can be used in many dishes. They have a neutral taste and a smooth, slightly crunchy texture. They are a great choice for people who are running low on time but still want to create a healthy and delicious dish. Here are some methods for cooking with kelp noodles:

  • Add them to hot dishes like soups and stir-fries.
  • Use them as a substitute for traditional noodles in your favorite pasta dishes.
  • Create a cold salad by adding fresh vegetables and a sweet dressing.
  • Try adding them to your favorite Asian-inspired recipes.

What are the Main Varieties of Kelp Noodles?

Kelp noodles come in different varieties, and each one has its own unique taste and texture. Here are some of the main varieties of kelp noodles:

  • White kelp noodles: These are the most popular type of kelp noodles and are usually made from pure kelp starch. They have a slightly sweet taste and a smooth texture.
  • Green kelp noodles: These are made from a combination of kelp and other seaweed varieties. They have a slightly more complex taste and a firmer texture.
  • Brown kelp noodles: These are made from a type of kelp that is rich in ash and minerals. They have a slightly stronger taste and a chewier texture.

What’s the Deal with the Taste of Kelp Noodles?

Kelp noodles are made from kelp seaweed, which gives them a unique texture. They are crunchy and translucent, which makes them a great addition to salads, soups, and stir-fries. The texture is similar to rice noodles, but with a bit more crunch.

Neutral Flavor

One of the best things about kelp noodles is that they have a neutral flavor. This means that they can be used in a variety of dishes without overpowering the other flavors. They are a great alternative to pasta or rice and can be used in any dish that calls for those ingredients.

Raw or Cooked

Kelp noodles can be eaten raw or cooked. When eaten raw, they have a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. When cooked, they become softer and take on the flavors of the dish they are cooked in.

Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Low-Carb

Kelp noodles are a great option for those who have dietary restrictions. They are gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb, making them a healthy alternative to traditional pasta or rice dishes.

Health Benefits

Kelp noodles are packed with minerals and vitamins, including iodine, calcium, magnesium, and iron. They are also easy to prepare, simply soak and rinse before they are ready to eat. Some of the health benefits of kelp noodles include:

  • Promoting thyroid health due to their high iodine content
  • Supporting bone health due to their calcium content
  • Boosting energy levels due to their iron content
  • Supporting heart health due to their magnesium content

Popular Substitute

Kelp noodles have become a popular substitute for pasta and rice dishes. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries. They are also a great option for those who are looking for a low-carb or gluten-free alternative.

Kelp Noodles: A Versatile and Healthy Alternative to Traditional Noodles

Kelp noodles are a great substitute for traditional noodles and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ways to use kelp noodles:

  • Raw: Kelp noodles can be eaten raw and are a great addition to salads. They have a neutral taste and a crunchy texture that adds a unique flavor to any dish.
  • Asian dishes: Kelp noodles are commonly used in Asian dishes like stir-fries and soups. They maintain their crunch even when cooked and add a complex flavor to the dish.
  • Substitute for pasta: Kelp noodles can be used as a substitute for pasta in dishes like spaghetti and meatballs. They are a low-carbohydrate alternative to traditional pasta and are rich in nutrients.
  • Grilled: Kelp noodles can be prepared by gently grilling them. This process adds a smoky flavor to the noodles and makes them a great addition to dishes like grilled beef.
  • Mix with sauce: Kelp noodles can be mixed with any sauce to create a unique flavor. They are pretty versatile and can be used with spicy or sweet sauces.

Preparing Kelp Noodles

Preparing kelp noodles is easy and enjoyable. Here are some methods to prepare kelp noodles:

  • Rinse: Kelp noodles come in a dried form and need to be rinsed before use. Rinse them under hot water for a couple of minutes to soften them.
  • Soak: Kelp noodles can be soaked in water for a couple of hours to soften them. This process makes them easier to cook and adds a unique flavor to the dish.
  • Grind: Kelp noodles can be ground into a powder and used as a starch in cooking. This process makes them an ideal choice for people who are looking for a low-carbohydrate alternative to traditional starches.

Get Cooking: How to Make the Most of Kelp Noodles

Kelp noodles are a popular choice for those who want to eat healthily. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight loss. They are also gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

Where To Get Your Hands On Kelp Noodles

If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to purchase kelp noodles, online stores are your best bet. Here are some of the best online stores to check out:

  • Amazon- offers a variety of brands and forms of kelp noodles, from raw to cooked, and even in bulk
  • Thrive Market- offers organic and non-GMO kelp noodles at a discounted price for members
  • iHerb- offers a variety of kelp noodle brands and forms, including spaghetti and fettuccine

Health Food Stores

If you prefer to see and touch the product before purchasing, check out your local health food store. Here are some of the best health food stores to find kelp noodles:

  • Whole Foods- offers a variety of kelp noodle brands, including Sea Tangle and Gold Mine
  • Sprouts Farmers Market- offers kelp noodles in the refrigerated section, usually near the tofu and tempeh
  • Natural Grocers- offers kelp noodles in the health food section, usually near the seaweed snacks

Asian Markets

Kelp noodles are a popular alternative to rice noodles in many Asian dishes, so it’s no surprise that you can find them in Asian markets. Here are some of the best Asian markets to check out:

  • 99 Ranch Market- offers kelp noodles in the refrigerated section, usually near the tofu and soy products
  • H Mart- offers a variety of kelp noodle brands and forms, including brown rice kelp noodles
  • Mitsuwa Marketplace- offers kelp noodles in the refrigerated section, usually near the seaweed and tofu

Making Your Own Kelp Noodles

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make your own kelp noodles, it’s actually quite easy! Here’s how:

  1. Rinse the kelp thoroughly to remove any salt or debris
  2. Cut the kelp into thin strips using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler
  3. Boil the kelp strips for 10-15 minutes until they become soft and pliable
  4. Drain the kelp and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process
  5. Store the kelp noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use

Kelp noodles are a healthful and tasty alternative to traditional pasta and rice noodles. They are low in carbohydrates, neutral in taste, and rich in trace minerals. Whether you eat them raw or hot, kelp noodles provide a unique texture that completes any dish. So go ahead and add some kelp noodles to your cooking repertoire and enjoy the benefits of this sea vegetable!

Why Kelp Noodles Are a Healthy Alternative to Traditional Noodles

Kelp noodles are a unique type of noodle that is composed mainly of water and iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral that is found in many foods, but kelp noodles are a particularly good source of this nutrient. Iodine is important for thyroid function and can help to lower the risk of certain types of cancer.

Low in Calories, Carbohydrates, and Fat

Kelp noodles are a great alternative to traditional noodles because they are low in calories, carbohydrates, and fat. This makes them a popular choice for people who are trying to lose weight or who are following a low-carb or vegan diet. Kelp noodles are also a good source of fiber, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve digestion.

Easy to Prepare and Store

Kelp noodles are easy to prepare and store, making them a convenient option for busy people. They can be prepared in a range of different ways, including raw, boiled, or stir-fried. Kelp noodles can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. When storing kelp noodles, it is important to remove any excess water and to store them in a sealed container.

A Healthy Substitute for Rice and Other Noodles

Kelp noodles are a healthy substitute for rice and other noodles because they are low in calories and carbohydrates. They are also a good source of iodine, which is important for thyroid function. Kelp noodles can be used in a range of different recipes, including soups, salads, and stir-fries. They are a great way to add extra vegetables to your diet and can be used as a substitute for traditional noodles in many recipes.

Choosing the Best Kelp Noodles

When choosing kelp noodles, it is important to look for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Kelp noodles should be stored in a cool, dry place and should be kept away from direct sunlight. It is also important to choose kelp noodles that have been properly prepared and dried. Some kelp noodles may be sold in strips or in a patent form, which means that they have been peeled and dried. These types of kelp noodles are easy to prepare and can be used in a range of different recipes.

Kelp Noodles vs Shirataki Noodles: Which One to Choose?

Kelp noodles and shirataki noodles are two types of noodles that are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious people. Kelp noodles are made from seaweed, while shirataki noodles are made from the root of the konjac plant, which is high in glucomannan.

Which One Is the Best?

It really depends on personal preference and what you’re making. If you’re looking for a pasta substitute, kelp noodles are a great option. If you’re looking for a rice or ramen noodle substitute, shirataki noodles are the way to go. Ultimately, both kelp noodles and shirataki noodles are healthy and delicious options for those looking to eat healthier.

Conclusion

So there you have it- everything you need to know about kelp noodles. They’re a great low-carb, high-fiber alternative to traditional noodles, and perfect for adding to soups and salads. 

You can’t go wrong with kelp noodles, so give them a try soon!

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

Try it out for free with Kindle Unlimited:

Read for free

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.