Shirataki Noodles - No Calories, No Carbs, Okay!

Shirataki Noodles just became the newest food to make your annual New Year's resolutions on dieting and health come true this year! Mentioned today by Chef Rocco DiSpirito on the Rachel Ray Show, the Internet was soon buzzing with Google searches for this sensational - but little known - noodle. So, it's true, now you can have your "pasta" and lose weight, too.

What are Shirataki Noodles?

Like its "cousins" ramen and soba, just to name two, Shirataki noodles are common place in the Japanese diet (as well as Korean and Chinese diets) as another noodle alternative. Unlike these wheat (ramen) and buckwheat (soba) based noodles, Shirataki noodles are made from the konjac plant and have been popular in Asian cultures for some time. The konjac plant produces a tuber similar to the yams that we are familiar with in the United States but the plant is not actually of the same plant family. That probably explains why Shirataki noodles which turn out translucent and somewhat gelatinous, taste and look nothing like the flavorful "yams" we know and love.

But that might be a good thing.

Shirataki Noodles Nutrition

Although we know yams as a nutritious and healthy food, the buzz is that Shirataki noodles beat yams hands down when it comes to a low calorie, low carb food. In fact, Shirataki noodles have no carbs, no calories, and no gluten.

That's right. None. They are also considered kosher. Plus, they don't need to be cooked and have a shelf life of up to a year.

Is this a miracle noodle or what!

Where to Purchase Shirataki Noodles

While we were busy eating our ramen, Shiratake noodles have been making some headway in markets such as Trader Joe's, Ralph's, and Safeway.

They can also be found in Asian markets and online at the aptly named Miracle Noodle website.

And don't forget your tofu. Shirataki noodles also come in tofu. But be aware that they don't last as long and do have some carbohydrates.

More Benefits of Eating Shirataki Miracle Noodles

The Miracle Noodles site claims that Shirataki noodles expand in your stomach and provide a feeling of fullness. The noodles also take on the taste of the sauce or other recipe components of your meal so that they are totally enjoyable and complement the meal. These noodles easily take the place of rice or pasta - but are better for you.

Shirataki Noodles Recipes

Because the buzz on these noodles shirataki is so new, there are not many recipes to be found on the Internet. However, the Miracle Noodle website does have a a Shirataki Noodle Recipe section along with specific information on preparation of the noodles. Also, don't miss the Miracle Noodle website forum where new recipes are listed everyday by people like you and me who are looking for tasty and nutritious ways to lose that weight.

Sources:
"Shirataki Noodles," Wikipedia.com
www.miraclenoodle.com