Kelp noodles facts for kids
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| Alternative names | Cheon Sa Chae, Angel threads, Angel noodles | ||||||
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| Type | Noodles | ||||||
| Region or state | East Asia | ||||||
| Main ingredients | Alginic acid from kelp | ||||||
| 6 kcal (25 kJ) | |||||||
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Kelp noodles, also known as cheon sa chae (Korean for "angel threads"), are a special type of noodle. They are made from a clear, jelly-like substance that comes from edible kelp, which is a kind of seaweed. Unlike regular noodles, kelp noodles do not contain grain flour or starch. This makes them very low in calories. They have a unique crunchy texture. You can eat them raw in salads, or cook them in dishes like stir-fries. Many restaurants now use kelp noodles as a healthy choice. Before cooking, it is a good idea to rinse them.
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What Makes Kelp Noodles Healthy?
Kelp noodles are a great food choice because they are very healthy. They do not have any fat, cholesterol, or gluten. This means they are good for people who need to avoid these things in their diet.
Key Nutrients in Kelp Noodles
Kelp noodles are full of important nutrients that your body needs. A small serving (about half a cup) gives you:
- 186 milligrams of sodium
- 134 milligrams of calcium
- 2.28 milligrams of iron
- 52.8 micrograms of Vitamin K
They are also a good source of iodine. Iodine is important for your thyroid gland, which helps control how your body uses energy. If someone has certain health conditions, like issues with their thyroid or heart, they should be aware of the natural iodine and sodium content in kelp noodles.
How Are Kelp Noodles Used?
Kelp noodles are very popular in Asian cooking. People often use them as a healthy replacement for rice or regular pasta. They are a good choice if you are looking for foods with fewer carbohydrates.
Dishes You Can Make
Because kelp noodles have a very mild taste, they easily take on the flavors of the sauces and ingredients they are cooked with. This makes them very versatile! You can find kelp noodles in many different dishes, such as:
- Soups
- Salads
- Stir-fries
- Vegetable side dishes
Where to Find Kelp Noodles
You can buy kelp noodles online or at health food stores. More and more restaurants are also starting to offer them. They are a popular alternative to traditional noodles or rice on their menus.
Why Kelp Noodles Are Becoming Popular
More and more people are choosing kelp noodles because they are very health-conscious. There is a growing demand for foods that are gluten-free. Since kelp noodles naturally do not contain gluten, they fit perfectly into this trend. This makes them a popular choice for many people looking for healthy and unique food options.
