Wuli instant noodles have always been a favorite for many foodies!
I'm one of them! Sometimes, I just don't feel like eating a proper meal and want some instant noodles instead. Although instant noodles are not healthy, their existence is justified!
If you can't resist the temptation of instant noodles, you can always improve the way you eat them~ So, if you want to eat instant noodles in a healthy and nutritious way, learn the correct method for cooking them below.
Step 1: Bring water to a boil, then put the instant noodle cake in. Do not add the other seasoning packets at this time! Cook until the noodles start to soften, give them a stir, and then immediately scoop them into a bowl. Discard the water you just cooked the noodles in.
Step 2: Start a fresh pot of water and cook the other seasoning packets. Once the water is boiling, add the seasoning and let it boil for at least 3 minutes (because the antioxidants in the seasoning packets will break down at high temperatures). However, only use one-third or half of the seasoning to reduce your sodium intake. If possible, you can also add an egg or some vegetables.
Step 3: Pour the cooked seasoning (and vegetables) into the bowl with the noodles, and you're done.
The noodles themselves in instant noodles do not contain preservatives, but for convenience, they are usually fried. The oil often contains BHT, a stabilizer that prevents food from rancidity, and excessive consumption can be carcinogenic. Moreover, the seasoning packets generally contain antioxidants, which can affect the liver. However, the cooking method above ensures that you will hardly consume any of the frying oil or BHT from the noodles, and the noodles also won't become mushy easily. Although the method is a bit more troublesome with three steps, it is relatively healthier. But I still need to remind everyone: if you're eating instant noodles as a treat, it's okay to have them occasionally, but definitely don't eat them often.
Healthy Eating Tips for Instant Noodles
1. Instant noodles are only suitable for emergencies, such as when you have no other food options or are in a situation where a proper meal is not possible. Eat them no more than once a day, and not every day.
2. People with gastrointestinal diseases, poor appetite, or malabsorption issues should avoid eating instant noodles.
3. If you like instant noodles or are in a situation where you need to eat them for an extended period, you should consider adding some side dishes to supplement the lack of nutrition. For example, you can add sausage, dried meat, beef jerky, flossed pork, a boiled egg (about 100g), or braised meat. You can also add some lard or sesame oil (about 25g) to the noodles. Alternatively, you can pair your meal with some fresh fruits and vegetables, such as cucumbers, water chestnuts, lotus root, bananas, tomatoes, radishes, sweet potatoes, pears, or oranges. The amount should be kept to about 250-300 grams.