Glass Noodle Recipe

What Are Glass Noodles?

Glass noodles—also known as sweet potato noodles, cellophane noodles, or bean thread noodles—are a versatile delight to include in your culinary repertoire. Made from starches like mung bean, sweet potato, or tapioca, these noodles transform into translucent strands of noodles when cooked. Known for their versatility and unique texture, glass noodles are a staple in many Asian cuisines. Naturally gluten-free, glass noodles are beloved for their unique texture and their ability to absorb the vibrant flavors of any dish they accompany.

Key Ingredients, Swaps and Substitutions

Cooking is an art, and every artist has their own palette. Here are some key ingredients, delightful swaps, and substitutions to make this recipe uniquely yours:

• Noodles: Can’t find glass noodles? Rice noodles or vermicelli make excellent alternatives, offering a similar texture and taste.
• Tofu: Swap tofu for tempeh or chickpeas for a different protein experience. Both absorb flavors well and add hearty texture.
• Vegetables: Use any vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn can add wonderful variety and crunch.
• Soy Sauce: Opt for tamari to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
• Sweetness: Replace sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a hint of natural sweetness.
• Spices: Fresh ginger can replace ginger powder for a more robust, aromatic flavor. For heat lovers, a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can spice things up.
• Garnishes: Experiment with chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add a new dimension to your dish.

Turn Your Glass Noodles Blue!

Make this dish extra-creative by turning your glass noodles a brilliant blue hue! It’s easy. Just cook them in a pot of shallow water, add a tablespoon of butterfly pea powder at the same time as you add the noodles, and watch them soak up the color and become a beautiful blue.

Want to have even more fun with your food? Add a squeeze of lemon over your blue noodles, and watch them turn purple right before your eyes!

How to Make This Glass Noodle Recipe

Making this glass noodle recipe is a breeze! With just a few steps, you’ll be on your way to a chewy, colorful dish that’s equally delicious and fun to make! Scroll to the recipe card for full instructions, but this will give you a basic idea about what you’ll do:

Step 1. Prepare the glass noodles according to the package instructions. This involves boiling them in a pot of water until cooked. Then rinse with cold water, which will prevent sticking. You may also drizzle lightly with oil to help prevent sticking even more.

Step 2: Dice your tofu into 1X1-inch pieces.

Step 3: Heat some toasted sesame oil in a large sauté pan. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and crumbled tofu, and cook for a few minutes.

Step 4: Next, toss in your veggies: diced red bell pepper, shredded carrots, corn, snow peas, and sliced cabbage.

Step 5: Pour in some soy sauce, a pinch of sugar, and a dash of ginger powder. Stir everything together and continue to cook until the vegetables reach your preferred tenderness.

Step 6: Mix in the glass noodles, give everything a quick sauté, then remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.

Step 7: Finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped green onion and sesame seeds as garnish.