How to Perfectly Cook Vermicelli Bean Thread Noodles Every Time

Vermicelli bean thread noodles, sometimes called glass noodles, mung bean noodles, or cellophane noodles, add a wonderful translucent appearance and delicate, springy texture to Asian dishes. They soak up the flavors of sauces and ingredients they are cooked with. However, their translucence disappears if they are overcooked and turn mushy. Follow this simple guide to cook vermicelli bean thread noodles flawlessly each time.

What are Bean Thread Noodles?

Bean thread noodles originate from China but are used throughout Asia in dishes like pad thai, pho, spring rolls and stir fries They are called “bean thread” because of their thin, noodle-like shape and the fact they are made from mung bean starch

Mung bean starch comes from mung beans that are ground and dissolved in water to create a gelatinous gel This gel is then cut into long thin strands and dried to make these unique noodles

The noodle strands are brittle when dry but soften and become pliable when soaked in water. When cooked briefly, they have an extremely tender, gelatin-like consistency. Their translucency makes them visually appealing in soups and salads.

Bean thread noodles are gluten-free since they do not contain any wheat. They are an ideal substitute for traditional noodles for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

How to Prepare and Soak Bean Thread Noodles

Bean thread noodles need to be soaked before cooking to soften and hydrate them. To prepare them:

• Place the dry noodles strands in a bowl and cover with very warm or hot tap water.

• Allow to soak for 10 to 15 minutes. The noodles will soften and become pliable as they soak and absorb the water.

• Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse under running water for 30 seconds to 1 minute. This removes any dust or excess starch and prevents sticking.

• The noodles are now ready to cook or add to your recipe ingredients.

Cooking Methods

Bean thread noodles cook extremely quickly, in just 1 to 2 minutes. There are two main cooking methods:

Boiling

This is the most common technique.

• Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.

• Add the soaked and drained noodles.

• Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, no longer.

• Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Microwaving

You can also cook the noodles very conveniently in the microwave.

• Place the soaked and drained noodles in a microwave-safe bowl.

• Add enough hot tap water to cover the noodles.

• Microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes.

• Drain immediately and rinse to stop further cooking.

The noodles are now ready to use in soups, stir-fries, spring rolls and other recipes. Their cooked translucent appearance is gorgeous in dishes.

Helpful Tips

Follow these tips for fail-proof bean thread noodles every time:

• Soak the noodles sufficiently before cooking so they become pliable. 10-15 minutes of soaking is ideal.

• Cook them briefly, only 1-2 minutes total, so they do not become mushy.

• Rinse immediately after cooking with cold water to halt the cooking process. This prevents overcooking.

• Toss them with a bit of oil after rinsing to prevent sticking.

• Add them at the very end to hot soups and stir-fries to gently heat through.

• Store unused soaked noodles in the refrigerator up to 5 days for quick use.

Delicious Ways to Use Bean Thread Noodles

The possibilities are endless when it comes to dishes you can create with bean thread noodles. Their mild flavor and texture lets other ingredients shine. They work with all types of cuisines. Here are some delicious ideas:

Asian Soups and Noodle Dishes

• Pho – Vietnamese noodle soup
• Laksa – Spicy coconut curry noodle soup
• Wonton soup
• Egg drop soup
• Hot and sour soup

Stir-Fries

• Pad thai
• Vegetable stir-fry
• Ginger chicken stir-fry
• Beef and broccoli

Spring and Summer Rolls

• Vietnamese spring rolls
• Thai summer rolls
• Shrimp summer rolls

Cold Salads

• Cucumber noodle salad
• Chicken soba salad
• Spicy glass noodle salad

Snacks

• Glass noodle pancakes
• Sesame noodles
• Cold spicy glass noodle salad

Don’t limit yourself though – bean thread noodles work well in everything fromAsian entrees to Italian dishes like pasta salads. Their neutral flavor lets other ingredients take center stage.

Where to Buy Bean Thread Noodles

Bean thread noodles can be found in the Asian foods aisle of most major grocery stores. Popular brands include Lee Kum Kee, Annie Chun’s and Lungkow. Look for them near other Asian noodles, rice papers and wrappers.

They can also be found for very affordable prices at any Asian market. Purchase them in bulk since they keep almost indefinitely when stored properly.

You may see them labeled as glass noodles, cellophane noodles, or mung bean vermicelli. The clear noodle strands might come bundled into little nest shapes. Don’t worry – they all transform into those familiar translucent strands once soaked and cooked.

Storing Bean Thread Noodles

Unopened packages of bean thread noodles keep almost indefinitely in the pantry. Once opened, transfer any unused portions to a sealed container or plastic bag. Keep in a cool, dry spot for up to a year.

As mentioned above, soaked noodles can be stored up to 5 days in the refrigerator before using. Place them in a covered container and make sure they remain fully submerged in water.

Cooked bean thread noodles will keep about 5 days in the refrigerator as well. Store them covered in a bit of sauce or dressing to prevent drying out.

With their super long shelf life and ease of preparation, bean thread noodles are an extremely convenient pantry staple. Keep some on hand for quick weekday meals or impromptu stir-fries. Or use them to add gorgeous transparency and texture to your favorite Asian dishes. Follow this simple guide to soaking, cooking and storing them properly. Soon you’ll be whipping up restaurant-quality pad thai, pho and other noodle-based recipes in your own kitchen.