Air-Dried Instant Noodles: A Healthier Alternative to Deep-Fried Ramen (2024)

Reflecting on my childhood, my mother’s frequent warnings about the health risks of instant noodles resound in my memory. During that era, amid the controversy surrounding MSG, I naively assumed that the ‘bad stuff’ was confined to the seasoning packets. Little did I realise the potential harm posed by the noodle block itself until much later.

Let’s delve deeper into the seemingly innocuous noodle block.

Traditional instant ramen noodles are made by mixing wheat flour, water, and other ingredients such as additives and preservatives to form a dough. This dough is then rolled out, cut into noodle shapes, and steamed. However, the key step that sets apart traditional instant noodles is deep frying. The steamed noodles are fried in oil until they become crispy, resulting in the familiar crunchy texture of instant ramen noodles.

Why Deep Fry?

Deep frying serves several purposes in the production of instant noodles. Firstly, it extends the shelf life of the noodles by removing moisture and preventing spoilage. Secondly, it creates the characteristic texture and flavour that many consumers associate with instant ramen. Lastly, deep frying allows for quick cooking when the noodles are later rehydrated in boiling water.

However, while deep frying achieves desirable results in terms of taste and texture, it also raises alarm bells in terms of health. Deep-fried foods are typically higher in calories, unhealthy fats, and sodium. Consuming these fried noodle cakes regularly can contribute to weight gain, heart disease, and other health issues associated with a diet high in processed foods.

This may leave you wondering… is there an alternative? The answer is a resounding yes!

The Healthy Alternative: Air-Dried Instant Noodles

As individuals become increasingly health-conscious, many are turning away from traditional instant noodles, recognizing the drawbacks of not only the sodium-laden seasonings but also the deep-fried, preservative-filled noodles.
Fortunately, some companies have responded to consumers’ health concerns by offering healthier alternatives to traditional instant noodles. These companies have embraced air drying as a healthier alternative. Air-drying involves removing moisture from the noodles using hot air instead of immersing them in oil. This method preserves the natural flavour and nutrients of the ingredients while significantly reducing the fat content.

Wholesome Bowl Noodles stands out as a pioneer in the realm of air-dried instant noodles. Crafted from high-quality ingredients, including whole wheat flour and natural seasonings, Wholesome Bowl noodles forego the need for deep frying. By air-drying their noodles, Wholesome Bowl maintains the nutritional integrity of their ingredients while offering a healthier option for consumers.

Moreover, Wholesome Bowl incorporates a complete balance of 17g protein, 6g fiber, and 16 essential vitamins and minerals, providing a satisfying and nutritious option for busy individuals. Unlike traditional instant noodles, Wholesome Bowl noodles prioritize overall health and well-being, containing no artificial additives, preservatives, or MSG, and offering a convenient solution for weight management without compromising on taste or nutrition. Wholesome Bowl noodles ship Australia wide.

In the quest for healthier eating choices, opting for air-dried instant noodles over deep-fried varieties is a step in the right direction. By understanding the production process and health implications of traditional instant ramen, consumers can make informed decisions about their food choices. With brands like Wholesome Bowl Noodles leading the way, enjoying a quick and convenient bowl of noodles can now be both delicious and nutritious.

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