If you are an avid fan of the idiyappam style kerala noodles, but hate the fact that they are full of carbs, try these Japanese low carb shirataki noodles instead.
What are shirataki noodles?
Are you always suspicious of a product that says low or zero-carb? Well, normally you should… But in this case, the noodles are not conjured up in some big food company’s lab, but made from the root of a yam called konjac.
Konjac has been known in Japan since the sixth century as a medicinal food. So, while the packaged noodle form may be new to you, this food has been around for a while.
Why are they low carb?
They are often zero or close to zero calories because the glucomannan starch they’re made of is an indigestible dietary fiber and also contains no carbohydrates.
Why do they smell weird when you open the package?
The only downside – They’re packaged in fishy-smelling liquid, which is actually plain water that has absorbed the odor of the konjac root.
But, Wait…The smell goes away easily!!
Just a couple of processing steps and use away like regular noodles…
Recipe
Rinse 
Boil 
Drain 
Toast
Low Carb Idiyappam recipe- from Shirataki noodles
- 1 packet Shirataki Noodles
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Drain the water from the packet. Rinse the noodles in fresh water a couple of times.
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Add drained noodles to boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain
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Toast the noodles in medium heat pan for a few minutes until you hear popping sounds in the pan.
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Serve with egg curry or with sweet coconut milk. Any way you serve idiyappam.
Here I have served a low carb breakfast with the noodles and egg curry for my husband.
Here I have dunked it in coconut milk + jaggery as a sweet dessert for the kids.
Conclusion
My sister first introduced me to shirataki noodles. At first, I was reluctant to try it. I had pre-conceived notions about its taste and texture. But she made some kick-ass marinara pasta with it and I was very impressed. So, I started trying it for Indian dishes.
Considering the high glycemic index of idiyappam, this is a great low-carb option for diabetics or pre-diabetics who are looking for substitutions.
The noodles have a chewy texture to it. Yes, it does feel light and low-carb-y. Which means you will not have that heavy, full feeling after eating it. But, hey – heavy feeling or sugar spike? Choose your weapon!!
Have you tried shirataki noodles? Post your thoughts and comments below. I look forward to hearing them.
Amazon Affiliate Link
Here’s a link if you wish to buy it or look up reviews on Amazon…
Thank you for posting this. I followed your instructions to get rid of the smell and they didn’t smell at all. I made stir fry noodles. Yummy.
That’s great to hear!! Thank you for posting your feedback.