A Guide to Different Types of Noodles and their Ideal Pairing Posted on 29 September 2025 0 Noodles are a staple in many cuisines worldwide, and Thai cuisine is no exception. From fresh, delicate rice noodles to hearty udon noodles, each type has its own unique texture and flavour Noodles are a staple in many cuisines worldwide, and Thai cuisine is no exception. From fresh, delicate rice noodles to hearty udon noodles, each type has its own unique texture and flavour profile, making it ideal for different dishes. Whether cooking a spicy stir-fry, a rich noodle soup, or a light salad, understanding the different types of noodles and how to pair them will take Thai cooking to the next level. Here, we’ll explore some popular types of noodles used in Thai cuisine and suggest the best dishes to pair them with. Rice Noodles Rice noodles are a key ingredient in many Thai dishes and are ideal for anyone who prefers a gluten-free option. Made from rice flour and water, these noodles have a soft texture that absorbs flavours beautifully. They come in various shapes and sizes, from thin rice vermicelli to wide flat noodles, and can be used in both soups and stir-fries. A great pairing for rice noodles is Pad Thai. The soft texture of rice noodles pairs suitably with the crunchy vegetables and peanuts in Pad Thai. Another popular dish that uses rice noodles is Pho. However, traditionally a Vietnamese dish, Pho is also enjoyed in Thai cuisine. Rice noodles in this dish soak up the aromatic broth and tender meats, providing a delightful balance of flavours. Ramen Noodles Ramen noodles, originating from Japan, have become a beloved addition to many Asian dishes. These noodles are made from wheat flour, salt, water, and kansui, which gives them their signature chewy, bouncy texture. Ramen noodles are often used in soups and broths, making them ideal for a comforting, hearty meal. One dish that pairs perfectly with ramen noodles is Tom Yum Ramen. This is a Thai twist on the classic Japanese ramen, combining ramen noodles with the spicy, sour broth of Tom Yum soup. Another great pairing for ramen noodles is curry ramen. Combine ramen noodles with a rich, creamy Thai red or green curry base, and add vegetables and your choice of protein for a satisfying, filling meal. Bean Thread Noodles Bean thread noodles, also known as glass noodles, are made from mung bean starch and are typically transparent when cooked. These noodles are light and delicate, ideal for dishes that require a more subtle noodle. A classic pairing for bean thread noodles is Pad Woon Sen. This Thai stir-fry is made with bean thread noodles, stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and your choice of protein, all seasoned with soy sauce and other aromatic flavours. The absorbent texture of the bean thread noodles makes them ideal for soaking up the savoury sauce. These noodles are also great in spring rolls, where they are paired with vegetables and herbs, wrapped in rice paper for a light and refreshing dish. Udon Noodles Udon noodles are thick, chewy wheat noodles commonly used in Japanese cuisine. While udon noodles are more commonly associated with Japanese dishes, they’re increasingly being used in Thai fusion dishes for a comforting, satisfying meal. Udon noodles work perfectly in Thai udon soup, where they’re added to a broth with herbs, vegetables, and a choice of protein. The hearty noodles provide a great balance with the bold, spicy soup. Udon noodles also work well in fusion dishes like Thai udon salad, where they are combined with fresh herbs, lime, and a tangy dressing. Soba Noodles Soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour, giving them a distinctive nutty flavour and a slightly firmer texture than traditional wheat noodles. Soba noodles are high in fibre and protein, making them a great choice for a healthy, filling meal. Soba noodles are great for cold noodle salads. Combine the noodles with fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrots, and radish, and toss them in a soy dressing with sesame oil. This refreshing dish is ideal for hot summer days. Soba noodles are also suitable for pairing with a rich coconut curry. For a warm, comforting meal, serve soba noodles in a fragrant coconut curry broth, with a variety of vegetables and protein. The nutty flavour of the soba noodles really complements creamy curry. Explore Different Noodle Options at Thai Food Direct Noodles are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from light salads to rich, comforting soups. Each type of noodle brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the soft texture of rice noodles, the chewy bite of udon, or the delicate silkiness of bean thread noodles. By understanding the different types of noodles and their ideal pairings, you can create delicious, authentic Thai dishes that are ideal for any occasion. At Thai Food Direct, we offer a wide range of noodles and other authentic ingredients to help you recreate beautiful Thai dishes at home. Visit our website today to explore our selection of noodles and other Thai food staples. From rice noodles to oyster sauce and curry paste, we’ve got everything needed to elevate your cooking and enjoy the true flavours of Thailand.