Out of Rice noodle, one case
Rice noodle substitute - best alternatives for Asian noodles
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Soba noodles
Same amount as the rice noodle
The best rice noodle substitutes are soba noodles, udon noodles, or glass noodles. For gluten-free options, use glass noodles or spiralized vegetables. For Asian dishes, use soba or udon noodles.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- Asian dishes
One casethe full pasta card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of rice noodle | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soba noodlesAsian dishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Udon noodlessoups | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 3 | Glass noodlesAsian dishes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Spiralized vegetableslow-carb dishes | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 5 | Shirataki noodleslow-carb dishes | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Soba noodles
different taste, similar texture
Buckwheat noodles with similar texture to rice noodles
- Best for
- Asian dishes, soups, stir-fries, when you want similar texture
Buckwheat noodles, similar texture, good for Asian dishes.
Udon noodles
different taste and texture
Thick wheat noodles with different texture than rice noodles
- Best for
- soups, stir-fries, when you want thick noodles
Thick wheat noodles, different texture, good for soups.
Glass noodles
similar taste and texture
Mung bean noodles with similar texture to rice noodles, gluten-free
- Best for
- Asian dishes, gluten-free cooking, when you want similar texture
Mung bean noodles, similar texture, gluten-free.
Spiralized vegetables
different taste and texture
Spiralized vegetables that mimic noodle texture
- Best for
- low-carb dishes, when you want vegetables, healthy option
Zucchini, carrot, or sweet potato noodles, low-carb option.
Shirataki noodles
neutral taste, different texture
Konjac noodles with virtually zero calories and carbs
- Best for
- low-carb dishes, when you want zero carbs, diet-friendly option
Konjac noodles, virtually zero carbs, different texture.
How it behaves in this recipe
Rice noodles are essential in many Asian dishes for their unique texture and ability to absorb flavors. The best substitutes maintain this texture while meeting specific dietary needs. Rice noodles are particularly popular in Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese cuisines.
Tips for substituting rice noodle
5 tips- Rice noodles cook quickly and can become mushy if overcooked
- Soak rice noodles in warm water before cooking to soften them
- For stir-fries, cook rice noodles separately and add at the end
- Rice noodles work well in soups and cold noodle salads
- Different types of rice noodles have different cooking times
Notes on rice noodle
- Mixed vegetables for a different texture
- Quinoa for a protein-rich alternative
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Regular pasta for a more accessible option
Questions
5 questionsWhat are rice noodles?
Rice noodles are made from rice flour and water. They're popular in Asian cuisine and come in various shapes and sizes, from thin vermicelli to wide flat noodles.
Can I use regular pasta instead of rice noodles?
Regular pasta can work as a substitute for rice noodles, but it has a different texture and flavor. Asian noodles like soba or udon are better substitutes.
What's the best substitute for rice noodles in pad thai?
Soba noodles or glass noodles work well in pad thai as substitutes for rice noodles. They have similar texture and work well with the sauce.
Are rice noodles gluten-free?
Yes, rice noodles are naturally gluten-free as they're made from rice flour. They're a good option for people with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use rice noodles in soup?
Yes, rice noodles work well in soups. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can become mushy.