Saimin Noodles: A Keto Disaster Or Delish?

Saimin noodles are a Hawaiian favourite, but are they keto-friendly? Traditional ramen is typically made from wheat-based noodles, which are high in carbohydrates. However, there are alternative noodle options that can be used to make keto-friendly ramen. These include shirataki noodles, zucchini noodles, and spaghetti squash noodles. Shirataki noodles, also known as miracle noodles, are made from water and glucomannan (a dietary fibre) and are a popular choice for keto ramen. They come in various shapes and absorb flavours well, making them a great base for an Asian-inspired dish.

Keto-friendly noodle options

If you're looking for keto-friendly noodle options, there are several alternatives you can explore. Here are some of the most popular choices:

Shirataki Noodles

Shirataki noodles, also known as miracle noodles, are a popular choice for those on a keto diet. These Japanese-style noodles are made from the fiber of the konjac yam and water, resulting in a low-calorie, low-carb option. They have a texture similar to tofu and are smooth and slightly gelatinous. Before using Shirataki noodles, be sure to rinse them thoroughly to eliminate any odour from the liquid they are stored in.

Tofu Noodles

Tofu noodles are another option for those who want to indulge in their favourite noodle dishes while sticking to their keto diet. While they may have a slightly higher carb count than Shirataki noodles, they are still a good choice for those who are in the weight maintenance phase and can afford a few extra carbs.

Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles, or "zoodles," are a fresh and light option that can be easily made with a spiralizer. They work particularly well in Asian-style dishes and can be paired with a variety of sauces.

Kelp Noodles

Kelp noodles are made from brown seaweed and are almost calorie and carb-free. They have a crunchy texture and are best served with Asian-based sauces or added to stir-fries.

Eggplant Noodles

Eggplant noodles are a good choice for lasagna or casserole dishes. However, they can get a bit mushy, so it's important to slice them evenly with a mandoline slicer for the best results.

Low-carb dough noodles

You can also make your own low-carb noodles using a dough made from almond or coconut flour. While it can be tricky to achieve the same texture as wheat pasta, these noodles can still be enjoyable with your favourite sauce.

Palmini Pasta

Palmini Pasta is a new product made from hearts of palm and has only four grams of carbs per serving. It's a great option for those looking for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.

Immi Ramen Noodles

If you're craving a bowl of ramen, Immi Ramen Noodles are a keto-friendly option. With only six grams of net carbs per package, they are one of the lowest carb options available that still resemble traditional ramen noodles.

Homemade Keto Egg Noodles

For a truly homemade experience, you can try making your own keto egg noodles using almond flour. This recipe only requires four ingredients and eight minutes of baking time. The resulting noodles are gluten-free, low-carb, and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, casseroles, or lasagna.

Saimin vs ramen

Saimin is a Hawaiian noodle dish, considered by some to be the national dish of Hawaii. It is available almost everywhere, at any time of the day, and is served at snack bars, coffee shops, restaurants, and resorts. Saimin was developed by various immigrant groups, including Chinese, Japanese, and Filipino, who adapted the dish to the ingredients available on the islands. Basic saimin is often eaten as a snack, while heartier versions can be served as a full meal. The noodles are usually thin and white and have a softer texture than ramen. The broth is typically clear and made with a light dashi (Japanese) stock. Common toppings include green onions, fish cakes, ham, char siu (sweet spiced roast pork), eggs, chicken, shrimp, greens, and bean sprouts.

Ramen, on the other hand, is a Japanese noodle dish that was originally brought to Japan by Chinese traders in the 1880s. It consists of chewy wheat flour noodles in a brothy soup base with various toppings such as vegetables, meats, or seafood. The noodles are thin and light, while the broth is rich and typically made from chicken bone, pork bone, dried sardines, bonito, kelp, or other vegetables. Ramen has several varieties, including miso, tonkotsu, shoyu, and shio, each with distinct noodle thickness and broth flavours.

While both dishes share similarities in their roots and ingredients, there are some key differences. Saimin noodles typically have higher egg content, giving them a chewier texture. The broth of saimin is generally clearer and lighter in taste compared to ramen, which is saltier and oilier. Saimin soup is often made with shrimp, resulting in a transparent broth, while ramen broth uses chicken or pork, giving it a cloudy appearance. Additionally, the toppings may differ slightly, with saimin sometimes including spam instead of chashu.

In terms of availability, ramen has spread internationally and is widely popular, especially among college students. In contrast, saimin is predominantly found in Hawaii, with some considering it an endemic dish that reflects the cultural fusion of the islands.

Nutritional yeast flakes

Nutritional yeast is a great source of plant-based protein, B vitamins, and trace minerals. It is also sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan. It can be used as a seasoning for popcorn, pasta, salads, or casseroles, or as a flavouring in soups, stews, or vegan sauces. It can even be added to smoothies or used as a thickener for soups and sauces.

Nutritional yeast is sold in flakes, granules, or powder form and can be found in the spice or condiment section of most grocery stores or in bulk bins of health food stores. It is usually packaged in a bag, shaker, or plastic container. When stored in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed container, it can last up to 2 years.

Some popular brands of nutritional yeast include Anthony's Premium Nutritional Yeast Flakes, Bragg's Nutritional Yeast Seasoning, and Bob's Red Mill Nutritional Yeast.

How to cook shirataki noodles

Saimin noodles are typically not keto-friendly as they are very high in carbohydrates. However, there are keto-friendly noodle alternatives that can be used as substitutes, such as shirataki noodles.

Shirataki noodles are a low- or zero-calorie noodle made from the root of the konjac plant. They have been consumed in Japan for centuries and are known for their ability to absorb flavours. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook shirataki noodles:

• Rinse the noodles: Place the shirataki noodles in a colander and run under cool running water to neutralise their flavour.
• Boil the noodles (optional): Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the noodles. Boiling is not necessary, but it is recommended for improving the texture.
• Drain and rinse: Return the noodles to the colander and drain. Rinse well again under running water, then pat very dry with paper towels.
• Stir-fry: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the noodles (without oil) and stir-fry until very dry. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
• Finish with a sauce of your choice: You can use any pasta sauce you like. For a garlic parmesan sauce, saute garlic in olive oil, then add broth and cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer until the volume is reduced by half. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
• Toss the noodles in the sauce: Add the noodles back to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce. Cook until hot, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Cooking Shirataki Noodles:

• The dry stir-frying step is crucial for achieving the best texture and flavour.
• Shirataki noodles can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, braises, stews, and cold preparations.
• They are versatile and can be paired with various ingredients, such as vegetables, meats, and seafood.
• Shirataki noodles are naturally low-calorie, low-carb, keto-friendly, vegetarian, and gluten-free.

Keto toppings

Saimin noodles are typically made from wheat and are therefore not keto-friendly. However, keto-friendly substitutes such as shirataki noodles, tofu noodles, zucchini noodles, kelp noodles, and cauliflower pasta can be used instead.

Now, let's talk about keto toppings!

When it comes to keto toppings, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Savory Toppings

• Eggs: A soft-boiled or hard-boiled egg is a great source of protein and makes a tasty topping. You can also scramble an egg into your dish for a creamier texture.
• Meat: Leftover steak, ground beef, shredded chicken, grilled chicken, pulled pork, pork belly, or pork roast are all excellent additions to your keto meal.
• Seafood: Shrimp or scallops can be a delicious and elegant choice for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Options: Keep your dish as-is, or add some bok choy, bean sprouts, or ginger for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Cheese: There are various cheese sauces and toppings that can be added, such as a basic keto cheese sauce, a dairy-free cheese sauce, or a cashew cheese sauce.
• Spices and Seasonings: Nutritional yeast flakes, black pepper, onion powder, garlic salt, and ginger are just a few of the spices you can use to add flavor to your dish.
• Vegetables: Sautéed cabbage, green onions, or roasted sesame seeds can add a crunchy and healthy topping to your meal.
• Sauces: Try a spicy mayo, remoulade sauce, keto BBQ sauce, avocado dressing, ranch dressing, or a lemon cheese sauce to add some extra flavor to your dish.

Sweet Toppings

• Syrups: Sugar-free syrup options such as keto maple syrup, caramel syrup, hazelnut syrup, or vanilla syrup can be drizzled over desserts or breakfast items like chaffles.
• Frosting: For your keto-friendly baked goods, a buttercream frosting flavored with sugar-free vanilla syrup is a delicious and versatile option.

Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your own unique combinations!

Frequently asked questions