Today, we are excited to present a recipe that not only tantalises your taste buds but also contributes to promoting skin health from within. Allow us to introduce our Miso Buckwheat Noodles – a delightful fusion of nutty buckwheat noodles, gluten-free ingredients, and the goodness of fermented miso paste. As we delve into this delectable dish, we'll also explore why it can be a valuable addition to your skincare regimen. So, please put on your aprons, and join us on a flavorful journey to nourish both body and skin with this nourishing culinary delight.
Why This Recipe is Good for Your Skin:
1. Gluten-Free Noodles:
Buckwheat noodles, also known as soba noodles, are a type of noodle made from buckwheat flour. Despite the name, buckwheat is not a type of wheat and is naturally gluten-free, which makes these noodles suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Buckwheat noodles have a unique nutty flavour and a slightly chewy texture, making them distinct from traditional wheat-based noodles. They are a popular staple in Japanese cuisine, where they are often enjoyed in various hot and cold dishes.
Soba noodles can be found in different forms, such as dried noodles that require boiling before consumption or fresh noodles that can be cooked quickly. They are commonly used in soups, stir-fries, and cold noodle salads, offering a versatile and delicious option for noodle lovers seeking a gluten-free alternative.
Using buckwheat (soba), noodles ensures this dish is gluten-free, which can benefit individuals with gluten sensitivity or certain skin conditions. Gluten can trigger inflammation in some people, potentially exacerbating skin issues like acne, eczema or psoriasis. Embracing gluten-free alternatives may help reduce skin inflammation, leading to a clearer and healthier complexion.
2. Fermented Miso Paste:
Miso paste is a traditional Japanese condiment with a rich history that dates back over a thousand years. It is made through a fermentation process involving soybeans, salt, and often other grains like rice. The mixture is left to ferment for varying lengths of time, contributing to the miso paste's distinct flavours and colours.
There are several types of miso paste, and the most common ones are white (Shiro) and red (aka) miso. White miso is fermented for a shorter period, resulting in a milder, sweeter flavour with a light beige colour. On the other hand, red miso undergoes a longer fermentation process, resulting in a deeper, robust umami flavour and a reddish-brown hue.
In addition to its delicious taste and versatility in cooking, miso paste offers numerous health benefits. It is a natural source of essential minerals such as manganese, copper, zinc, and various B vitamins. Miso is also rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion.
Probiotics in miso paste contribute to improved gut health, which, in turn, may positively affect overall well-being, including potential benefits for skin health. A well-functioning gut can lead to better nutrient absorption, reduced inflammation, and a more balanced immune system, all of which play crucial roles in maintaining healthy skin.
When using miso paste in recipes like our Miso Buckwheat Noodles, it's essential to avoid boiling it at high temperatures, as excessive heat can destroy the beneficial probiotics. Instead, adding miso paste towards the end of cooking or using it in dressings and sauces allows you to preserve its nutritional properties.
As a flavorful and nutritious ingredient, miso paste adds depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes beyond Japanese cuisine. Its umami-rich profile enhances soups, marinades, dressings, and glazes, making it a valuable addition to any culinary repertoire.
When purchasing miso paste, it's best to opt for organic or non-GMO varieties, as they are often made from higher-quality ingredients and do not contain unwanted additives. Appropriately stored in the refrigerator, miso paste can have a long shelf life, allowing you to explore its incredible taste and health benefits in various culinary creations for months to come.
Miso Buckwheat Noodles Recipe
The recipe serves approximately 2 to 3 people, depending on their appetites and whether it's being served as a main or side dish. Adjust the quantities accordingly if you need to serve more people or if you want to have leftovers for later.
Ingredients:
8 oz (225g) buckwheat (soba) noodles
2 tablespoons miso paste (white or red, your choice)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 spring (green) onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the buckwheat noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix the miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and maple syrup (or honey) until well combined. This will be our delicious sauce!
Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add broccoli, carrot, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften but remain crisp.
Toss in the cooked buckwheat noodles and pour the miso sauce over them. Stir everything together, making sure the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the noodles are heated through.
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with sliced spring (green) onions and sesame seeds.
If you wish, garnish with fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves for an extra burst of flavour.
Serve hot, and enjoy your delightful Miso Buckwheat Noodles!
Nutrition Information:
(Note: The following nutrition information is approximate and may vary based on the brands and quantities used.)
Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 400 kcal
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 850mg
Total Carbohydrates: 70g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 14g
Vitamin D: 0mcg
Calcium: 80mg
Iron: 3mg
Potassium: 470mg
Conclusion:
Indulging in our Miso Buckwheat Noodles not only treats your taste buds to a delightful umami experience but also supports your skin health from within. This dish is super nourishing with gluten-free buckwheat noodles and the probiotic benefits of fermented miso paste. This versatile recipe allows you to experiment with different vegetables or proteins to suit your preferences, making it an ideal choice for any mealtime occasion. So, next time you're in the mood for a quick, delicious, and nutrient-rich meal, don't hesitate to whip up a bowl of Miso Buckwheat Noodles.
To find out how Nutritional Therapy can benefit your skin health, contact us at the Powers Nutrition Clinic today.
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