The hiyamugi noodle is a variety of Japanese noodles that is ideal for use in both cold and hot dishes. Usually made from wheat flour, hiyamugi noodles are very thin in size, as well as very fragile in texture. These delicate wheat flour noodles are usually sold in long strands that have been gathered into bundles. Here are some facts about hiyamugi noodles, as well as some examples of how the noodles can be used in various recipes.

The typical bundle of hiyamugi noodles will include strands of white noodles that are easily broken. Usually, there are a few strands of hiyamugi noodles mixed into the bundle that are slightly pink in color, as well as a few that may have a brown hue. While the taste is the same for all the hiyamugi noodles, the slight variance in shades of white, contrasted with the inclusion of some pink and brown noodles, can add a touch of visual interest. This is especially true when the hiyamugi noodles are prepared as a simple noodle dish that is served with no garnish other than a dipping sauce.

While hiyamugi noodles are very delicate before cooking, they are similar to other forms of pasta in texture once they are cooked. Hiyamugi noodles can be used in a number of different types of cuisine other than the traditional Japanese. Hiyamugi noodles can work very well with both Korean and Thai dishes, often being utilized instead of rice as part of the meal. The taste of hiyamugi noodles works very well in a number of cold pasta salads as well. For instance, a simple marinated bean salad can benefit from the introduction of hiyamugi noodles into the recipe. Using hiyamugi noodles to replace elbow macaroni in dishes that normally include a range of vegetables and pasta tossed with mayonnaise or a white sauce can provide new life to old dinnertime favorites.

While hiyamugi noodles are more often used in cold dishes, it is possible to serve them hot, accompanied by a meat or vegetable sauce. Recipes for baked dishes that make good use of hiyamugi noodles can be found in a number of Asian and Japanese cookbooks. While hiyamugi noodles may not be carried in most supermarkets, specialty grocery stores and many health food shops with a food section will carry a selection of dried hiyamugi noodles. As a way of adding interest to long time favorite dishes, the use of hiyamugi noodles is an excellent option.