Cooking Noodles: Unraveling the Mystery Behind Using Large Amounts of Hot Water
Key Takeways
- I learned from a very young age that the key to cooking the perfect noodle is to make sure that you cook it in a large amount of hot water.
- The reason why the noodle is cooked in a large amount of hot water is to make sure that the seasoning is absorbed by the noodle.
- The reason for cooking the noodle in a large amount of hot water is to cook the noodle evenly, ensure the center is cooked, and prevent the noodle from being mushy.
The Reason Why Noodles Are Cooked In A Large Amount Of Hot Water
Have you ever noticed that when you cook noodles, you need to use a huge pot of water? Like, seriously huge.
Even if you’re only cooking for one or two people, the recommended amount of water is still at least 4-5 liters (1 gallon).
But why? Why do we need to use so much water to cook such a small amount of noodles? The answer is actually pretty simple: because noodles are crazy absorbent.
1. To cook the noodle evenly
I learned from a very young age that the key to cooking the perfect noodle is to make sure that you cook it in a large amount of hot water.
This is because the hot water cooks the noodle evenly, ensuring that it is cooked all the way through.
As a result, the noodle is never undercooked or overcooked.
I also learned that it is important to stir the noodles constantly while they are cooking.
This is because the hot water can easily stick to the noodles and cause them to become soggy.
By constantly stirring, I am able to make sure that the noodles are cooked evenly and that they stay firm.
Finally, I learned that it is important to season the noodles while they are cooking.
This is because the hot water can easily absorb the flavor of the seasoning, making the noodles more flavorful.
By seasoning the noodles while they are cooking, I am able to make sure that the noodles are cooked evenly and that they taste great.
2. To make sure the center is cooked
There is no definitive answer to this question as it could depend on a number of factors, including the type of noodle used, the cooking method, and the personal preference of the individual.
However, one possible reason for cooking noodles in a large amount of hot water could be to ensure that the noodles are cooked thoroughly and do not have any remaining crunchy bits.
3. To prevent the noodle from being mushy
The cook then adds the alkaline solution to the noodles.
This alkali solution helps the noodles to achieve the perfect texture and mouthfeel.
The solution also helps to separate the noodles from each other.
In the next step, the cook adds the noodles to a large pot of hot water.
The hot water is enough to cook the noodles perfectly without making them soggy.
The next step is to drain the noodles and add them to the soup.
The hot water helps to cook the noodles perfectly.
The noodles are then added to the soup and cooked for another 2-3 minutes.
This way, the noodles are cooked perfectly and the soup is rich and flavorful.
4. To make sure the seasoning is absorbed
The reason why the noodle is cooked in a large amount of hot water is to make sure that the seasoning is absorbed by the noodle.
The hot water helps to break down the structure of the noodle, allowing it to absorb more of the seasoning.
In addition, cooking the noodle in hot water also helps to remove any excess oil or grease from the surface of the noodle.
This is especially important for noodles that are served cold, as it helps to prevent them from becoming soggy and mushy.
5. To make sure the noodle is flavorful
The reason the noodles are cooked in a large amount of hot water is to make sure that they are fully cooked and also to make sure that they stay separate and don’t clump together.
If you don’t use enough water, the noodles will not cook through fully and will be clumpy.
If you use too much water, the noodles will be mushy and won’t hold their shape.
It’s important to find the right balance of water to make sure that the noodles are fully cooked but still firm and separate.
The Bottom Line
The reason for cooking the noodle in a large amount of hot water is to cook the noodle evenly, ensure the center is cooked, and prevent the noodle from being mushy.