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By Terry Durack
Published 2002
What
This noodle has more aliases than the Jackal. Referred to as bean thread, green bean thread, cellophane, jelly, transparent, glass, silver, and even invisible noodles, these thin, opaque white threads are made from an extrusion of mung bean starch and tapioca starch mixed with water. When soaked, they become gelatinous in texture and quite see-through. Their ability to absorb stock makes them ideal for soups, stews and soupy, braised dishes. They can even be deep fried, instantly expanding before your eyes in much the same way as rice vermicelli. They are also popular in desserts, enriched with palm sugar and coconut milk.
