If you’ve started eating gluten free, then you’re probably wondering - is ramen gluten free? While traditional ramen is, unfortunately, not gluten-fee, there are plenty of options on the market that are.
In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about gluten free ramen and explain to you whether or not ramen is gluten-free and why.
Is Ramen Gluten Free?
When it comes to comfort food, ramen often tops the list with its warm, savory broth and slurp-worthy noodles. But for those following a gluten-free diet, you might be wondering: is ramen gluten free?
Traditional ramen noodles, made from wheat, are not gluten-free. They contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This can be a problem for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
But thankfully, there are plenty of gluten-free alternatives available. You can find gluten-free ramen noodles made from rice, quinoa, or even sweet potatoes. These options allow you to enjoy the comforting bowl of ramen without the worry of gluten.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that it's not just about the noodles. The broth can also contain gluten, often in the form of soy sauce or other seasonings. So, when preparing your own gluten-free ramen at home, be sure to use gluten-free broth and seasonings as well.
If you're dining out, don't hesitate to ask the restaurant if they offer gluten-free options or if they can accommodate your dietary needs. Many places are becoming more aware and accommodating of dietary restrictions.
I’ve even written many gluten free restaurant guides, including ones for Cheesecake Factory, Dunkin Donuts, Jack In The Box, and Panda Express.
Are There Ramen Noodles that are Gluten Free?
Absolutely, yes! While traditional ramen noodles are made from wheat and are not gluten free, there are now plenty of gluten free alternatives available in the market. These alternatives are just as delicious and can satisfy your craving for a hot bowl of ramen without causing any gluten-related issues.
What is Gluten Free Ramen Made Of?
Gluten-free ramen is a great alternative for those who love the comforting, savory taste of traditional ramen but need to avoid gluten for dietary reasons. But what exactly is gluten-free ramen made of?
The main ingredient in gluten-free ramen noodles is usually rice flour, though other gluten-free flours like quinoa, buckwheat, or amaranth can also be used. Rice flour is a popular choice because it's naturally gluten-free and it creates a noodle texture that is quite similar to regular wheat-based ramen.
Other ingredients often include tapioca starch or potato starch, which help to give the noodles a firm, chewy texture. Xanthan gum is another common ingredient, which serves as a binder to hold the noodles together.
For the broth, gluten-free soy sauce, miso, or tamari can be used to achieve that signature umami flavor. Fresh vegetables, lean meats, and a variety of spices are then added to complete the dish.
It's important to note that while these ingredients are commonly used in gluten-free ramen, recipes can vary greatly. Always check the label if you're buying pre-packaged gluten-free ramen, or ask for the list of ingredients if you're ordering at a restaurant.
Where Can You Buy Gluten Free Ramen Noodles?
Finding gluten-free ramen noodles doesn't have to be a daunting task. In fact, you'd be surprised at the variety of options available to you.
First off, your local grocery store is a great place to start. Many supermarkets have a dedicated gluten-free section where you can find a variety of gluten-free products, including ramen noodles. Look for brands like Lotus Foods and King Soba, which offer gluten-free ramen options.
Health food stores are another excellent resource. These stores often carry a wider range of gluten-free products than typical supermarkets. You may find brands that you haven't seen in your regular grocery store.
Don't forget about online shopping too. Websites like Amazon, Thrive Market, and iHerb have a vast selection of gluten-free ramen noodles available for delivery right to your doorstep. This can be a real game-changer, especially for those who live in areas where gluten-free options are limited in local stores.
And if you're dining out and craving ramen, don't worry! More and more restaurants are catering to dietary restrictions and offering gluten-free options. It's always a good idea to call ahead and ask if they offer gluten-free ramen.
What Brand of Ramen Noodles Are Gluten Free?
Fortunately, there are quite a few gluten free ramen brands that you can buy. Here are the ones I recommend checking out:
Lotus Foods Millet and Brown Rice Ramen Noodles
Lotus Foods Millet and Brown Rice Ramen Noodles are made from whole grain millet and handcrafted brown rice, which are both naturally gluten-free grains. So, not only are these noodles gluten-free, but they're also packed with fiber and nutrients that are good for your health.
One of the best things about Lotus Foods Ramen Noodles is their texture. Unlike some gluten-free alternatives that can be a bit mushy or gritty, these noodles have a firm, satisfying bite that's very similar to traditional wheat-based ramen. They also have a mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of broths and toppings.
Lotus Foods Millet and Brown Rice Ramen Noodles can be found in many health food stores and online. They're a bit pricier than regular ramen noodles, but the taste and texture make them worth every penny. Plus, they're a great way to enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen without worrying about gluten.
Gluten Free Meister Japanese Ramen
Gluten Free Meister is a great ramen noodle brand. It’s a true game-changer for those who love Japanese cuisine but need to maintain a gluten-free diet. Originating from Japan, Gluten Free Meister offers authentic taste and texture, which is often hard to find in gluten-free products.
Their ramen noodles are made from a blend of rice and potato starch and provide a satisfying chewy texture that's as close as you can get to traditional wheat-based ramen. They are free from any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, making them a healthier choice for those who are conscious about what they eat.
What’s best is that they come in a variety of flavors. From the rich and savory Shoyu (soy sauce) flavor to the spicy Miso, there's a taste to suit everyone's palate. Each pack also comes with a separate soup base, so you can easily control the intensity of the flavor.
You can find Gluten Free Meister ramen noodles in many online stores, including Amazon. They also have a website where you can directly order their products.
Shaman Ramen
If you're a fan of spicy flavor, then Shaman Ramen is perfect for you. This brand is known for its bold and fiery flavors, which can be a welcome addition to your gluten-free diet.
Shaman Ramen is made from a unique blend of rice and millet, which not only makes it gluten-free but also adds a unique texture that is both chewy and satisfying. This brand stands out for its commitment to using only natural ingredients, which means you won't find any artificial preservatives or flavor enhancers in these noodles.
One of the most popular options from Shaman Ramen is their Savory Mystic Miso flavor. It's a great choice if you're looking to spice up your meals while still sticking to a gluten-free diet. The noodles are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite toppings.
You can find Shaman Ramen in many health food stores or online. It's worth noting that while this brand is gluten-free, it's always important to double-check the packaging to make sure it suits your dietary needs.
Big Green Organic Millet Ramen
When it comes to gluten-free ramen options, Big Green Organic Millet Ramen definitely deserves a spot on your shopping list. This brand is known for its commitment to organic and healthy food products, and their gluten-free ramen is no exception.
Big Green Organic Millet Ramen is made from millet, an ancient grain that's naturally gluten-free. Millet is a nutrient-dense grain, offering a great source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. This makes Big Green's ramen a healthy choice for those following a gluten-free diet, as well as anyone looking to add more whole grains to their meals.
The texture of these noodles is pleasingly chewy and firm, similar to traditional wheat-based ramen. They cook up quickly and easily which makes them a convenient choice for fast, gluten-free meals.
Big Green Organic Millet Ramen is also free from any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, so you can feel good about serving it to your family. Plus, the flavor is mild and versatile, making it a perfect canvas for your favorite ramen recipes.
You can find Big Green Organic Millet Ramen in many health food stores and online. Just remember to check the label to ensure it's marked as gluten-free.
ONETANG Organic Buckwheat & Brown Rice Ramen Noodles
If you're looking for a gluten-free ramen noodle option that doesn't compromise on taste and texture, then you need to check out ONETANG Organic Buckwheat and Brown Rice Ramen Noodles.
ONETANG is a brand that has been gaining popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Their Organic Buckwheat & Brown Rice Ramen Noodles are a great gluten-free option that offer delicious and satisfying ramen noodles.
Buckwheat, despite its name, is not related to wheat and is a rich source of protein and fiber. On the other hand, brown rice is a whole grain that provides essential nutrients like magnesium, iron, selenium, and various B vitamins.
When combined, these two ingredients create a noodle that is not only gluten-free but also packed with beneficial nutrients. The noodles have a slightly nutty flavor and a firm, chewy texture that holds up well in soups and broths.
ONETANG Organic Buckwheat & Brown Rice Ramen Noodles are available in most health food stores and online. They come in convenient packs that are easy to prepare, making them a great choice for quick and healthy meals.
Gefen Gluten Free Brown Rice Noodle Bowl
If you're in the market for a quick, nutritious, and gluten-free meal, the Gefen Gluten Free Brown Rice Noodle Bowl is an excellent choice. This product is not only gluten-free, but it's also kosher and vegan, making it a versatile option for those with specific dietary needs.
The Gefen Gluten Free Brown Rice Noodle Bowl is made with brown rice noodles, which are a great gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat-based noodles. Brown rice noodles are packed with fiber and nutrients, making this noodle bowl a wholesome and satisfying meal.
As ramen noodles should be, these noodles are super convenient! Each bowl comes with its own seasoning packet, so all you need to do is add hot water and let it sit for a few minutes. This makes it a perfect meal for those busy days when you don't have time to cook from scratch but still want a nutritious, gluten-free meal.
You can find Gefen Gluten Free Brown Rice Noodle Bowls at most health food stores, online retailers, and even some mainstream grocery stores. They come in several different flavors, including vegetable, chicken, and beef, so there's something to suit everyone's preferences.
Mr. Lee’s Noodles
If you're a fan of instant ramen and are on a gluten-free diet but live in the UK, then don’t worry I have a great option for you as well. Mr. Lee’s Noodles is a great UK-based brand that offers gluten-free ramen options. Their gluten-free range is not only delicious but also packed with authentic Asian flavors.
Mr. Lee’s Noodles are made from rice, a naturally gluten-free grain. They are not only free from gluten but also free from artificial preservatives, MSG, and other harmful additives. The brand prides itself on using only the finest natural ingredients to make sure their ramen is as healthy as it is tasty.
One of the most popular flavors is their Tai Chi Chicken flavor. It's a comforting bowl of ramen with a perfect balance of savory chicken, zesty lemongrass, and a hint of coriander. It's a delicious, warming, and hearty meal that's ready in just minutes.
You can find Mr. Lee’s Noodles in most major supermarkets and health food stores. They are also available for purchase online.
Thai Kitchen
When it comes to gluten-free ramen, Thai Kitchen is a brand you certainly can't ignore. They’re renowned for their dedication to authentic, flavorful, and healthy Asian cuisine and offer a variety of gluten-free options that are sure to satisfy your ramen cravings.
Thai Kitchen's Stir-Fry Rice Noodles are a perfect gluten-free alternative to traditional ramen noodles. These noodles are made from three simple ingredients: rice, water, and salt. Not only are they gluten-free, but they're also free of any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
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