Noodle Guide

A simple guide to choosing noodles

Different noodles can change the texture of a dish even when the sauce stays exactly the same. Here is a simple way to choose the right style for the meal you have in mind.

Thin noodles for quick meals

Thin wheat or rice noodles cook quickly and work well with light sauces, vegetables and simple proteins. They are a practical option for busy evenings when you want a meal on the table without a long cooking process.

Thicker noodles for rich sauces

Thicker noodles bring a satisfying chew and can stand up to stronger sauces. They are useful in stir-fries where you want the noodles to remain noticeable rather than becoming lost among the other ingredients.

Rice noodles for a lighter texture

Rice noodles are popular across many dishes and come in a range of widths. They can be used in soups, salads and stir-fries, and their neutral flavour gives sauces and fresh herbs plenty of room to shine.

Instant noodles can be more than a quick bowl

Instant noodles are convenient, but you can easily build them into a more complete meal. Add greens, an egg, leftover roast chicken, tofu or fresh herbs. A spoonful of chilli crisp or a splash of sesame oil can also change the finished bowl.

Choose based on the dish, not just the packet

When shopping, think about the final texture you want. Soft and delicate, springy and chewy, or hearty and substantial? Once you start choosing noodles based on that question, it becomes much easier to experiment.