Bean Thread (Transparent) Noodles

These noodles, also called cellophane noodles, are made from ground mung beans and not from a grain flour. They are available dried, and are very fine and white. Easy to recognize packed in their neat, plastic-wrapped bundles, they are stocked by most Chinese grocers and some supermarkets. They are never served on their own, but are added to soups or braised dishes or are deep-fried as a garnish. They must be soaked in warm water for about 5 minutes before use. As they are rather long, you might find it easier to cut them into shorter lengths after soaking. They can also be fried, in which case do not soak them before using.