Rice Noodles: How to Cook Them and Which to Use
How do you cook rice noodles without them going sticky?
Most rice noodles only need soaking in hot water, not boiling. Boiling is what turns them gummy. Soak until just soft, drain straight away, and toss with a little oil so they do not stick together while they wait.
For kitchens that go through noodles every service, Tiger Tiger supplies rice noodles wholesale, by the case, through our trade register.
Are Rice Noodles Gluten Free?
Yes. Rice noodles are made from rice flour and water, so they are naturally gluten free. This makes them a straightforward swap on a menu that needs a gluten-free noodle option, without needing a separate supplier or a different sauce.
Which Rice Noodle to Use
Rice noodles come in several widths and forms, each suited to a different dish.
| Type | Also known as | Best for |
| Vermicelli | Rice vermicelli, mai fun | Spring rolls, salads, soups |
| Flat rice noodles | Ho fun, sen yai | Pad see ew, beef chow fun |
| Medium rice sticks | Pad Thai noodles, sen lek | Pad Thai, stir-fries |
| Thin rice sticks | Pho noodles, banh pho | Pho and other noodle soups |
Tiger Tiger supplies Pad Thai rice noodles and other widths across the range, sold in bulk packs for restaurants and takeaways. See the full noodles category for what is currently in stock.
Method
- Check the pack. Thin vermicelli usually needs only a soak in just-boiled water. Thicker flat noodles may need a brief simmer instead, so follow the pack timing.
- Soak or simmer until just soft, with a little bite left. They will keep cooking slightly once drained.
- Drain straight away and rinse briefly in cold water to stop the cooking.
- Toss with a little oil if they are not going straight into a hot pan or broth, to keep them from clumping.
- Add to a stir-fry, soup or salad as the recipe calls for.
Ways To Use Rice Noodles
Rice noodles cover a wide range of dishes, from Vietnamese pho to Thai pad see ew, and are a reliable gluten-free option across a pan-Asian menu. For sauces to pair with them, see our guide to Asian sauces. If your kitchen also runs Japanese noodle dishes, our guide to Japanese noodles covers preparation for those.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you boil or soak rice noodles?
Most rice noodles only need soaking in hot water. Boiling tends to overcook them and make them sticky. Thicker noodles may need a brief simmer, so check the pack.
Are rice noodles gluten free?
Yes. They are made from rice flour and water, with no wheat.
What is the difference between rice noodles and vermicelli?
Vermicelli is a thin type of rice noodle. Rice noodles is the broader term and covers thin vermicelli through to wide, flat noodles like ho fun.
Can I buy rice noodles wholesale?
Yes. Tiger Tiger supplies rice noodles by the case for restaurants, takeaways and shops. Order through our trade register.
Tiger Tiger sells in bulk, not single packs. If you run a kitchen, takeaway or shop, buy rice noodles wholesale by the case. Fill in the trade register to get started.