Health Benefits and Easy Recipes: Soba Noodles with Turmeric
If you’re on a gluten-free diet, finding tasty pasta can be tricky. Gluten-free noodles are available, but they often miss out on the benefits that whole grains provide. Enter soba noodles. These wheat-free noodles are not just a delicious alternative to traditional pasta, but they also come with a range of health benefits. Especially when covered in a light and fresh Thai dressing, a soba noodles recipe is hard to resist.
What Are Soba Noodles?
Soba noodles are popular in Japan. In Japanese, "soba" means "buckwheat," which is what these noodles are made from. Previously, you could only find soba noodles in Japanese restaurants in the U.S., but now they are much more common.
Gluten-Free and Nutty Flavor
Buckwheat is actually a seed, not a grain, so it’s totally gluten-free. This makes it an excellent choice for people avoiding wheat. Buckwheat has a deep, nutty flavor that’s perfect in stir-fry noodle recipes.
Shopping Tips
When buying soba noodles, be aware that some brands add wheat as a filler. Pure soba noodles are made only from buckwheat. You can usually find these in the organic section of your grocery store, at Asian markets, or online.
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Health Benefits of Soba Noodles
So, why are soba noodles good for you? Normally, noodles aren’t considered health foods, but soba noodles are an exception.
Prebiotic Benefits
Soba noodles are considered a prebiotic. Prebiotics are compounds that probiotics, the healthy bacteria in your gut, eat. By eating enough prebiotics, you provide beneficial fuel to the good bacteria in your gut, helping keep your digestive system balanced and happy. Think of prebiotics and probiotics as natural antibiotics.
High Protein Content
Soba noodles are packed with protein. Two ounces of soba noodles provide eight grams of protein. Protein boosts energy levels, prevents fatigue, builds muscle mass, and more. It's important to get enough protein in your diet. According to the USDA, we should aim for roughly 50 grams a day—slightly more for men and a bit less for women.
Nutritional Facts of Soba Noodles Recipe
One serving of this soba noodles recipe (based on four servings) contains approximately:
How to Make Soba Noodles Recipe
This soba noodles salad recipe will make you a fan of soba noodles. It’s packed with veggies like carrots, peppers, and cabbage, and finished with a creamy nut butter dressing. It’s great for busy nights because you can prep the veggies and the dressing ahead of time. Just prepare the noodles and combine when you’re ready to eat.
Ingredients
Dressing:
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing:
- Combine coconut aminos, maple syrup, sesame oil, nut butter, hot water, ground ginger, ground turmeric, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Cook the Soba Noodles:
- Follow the package direction to cook the soba noodles. Set aside once done. This salad can be eaten warm, at room temperature, or cold.
Chop the Veggies:
- Shred the carrots, slice the bell peppers and cabbage, chop the green onions and cucumber, and cilantro.
Combine:
- Toss the cooked soba noodles in a bowl with the chopped veggies.
- Drizzle the dressing over the noodles and veggies. Stir to combine until everything is coated.
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Benefits of Recipe Ingredients
Carrots, Bell Peppers, and Cabbage
Carrots provide beta-carotene, which is good for your eyes. Bell peppers are packed with antioxidants and vitamins. One bell pepper contains more than double your daily amount of vitamin C and 75% of your daily vitamin A. Cabbage is full of vitamin C, helps keep your immunity up, fights inflammation, and is low in calories.
Turmeric and Ginger
Adding turmeric and ginger to your meals can give a natural immunity boost. Turmeric is a powerful herb used for thousands of years to fight disease. Ginger is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Other Thai Recipes
Inspired to make more Thai dishes? Try these recipes:
- Tom Kha Gai
- Thai Coconut Soup
- Thai Curry Kelp Noodles
- Thai Green Curry
- Thai Chili Sauce
- Thai Spring Rolls
- Thai Chicken Stir Fry
Conclusion
Soba noodles, combined with a variety of healthy and colorful vegetables, make a nutritious and tasty meal. The inclusion of turmeric and ginger in the dressing not only enhances the flavor but also adds significant health benefits. Enjoy this soba noodles recipe for a delightful and healthy meal option. Read more...
