Cellophane noodles, also referred to as glass, crystal or mung bean noodles, are common in Asian cuisine. Made from mung bean flour, arrowroot, cornstarch or tapioca, the noodles are thin and translucent, particularly after they are cooked. Though they have no flavor, cellophane noodles are frequently used in soups, salads, egg rolls and stir-fried dishes to add texture and body. The noodles are a good source of carbohydrates that are low in fat and cholesterol.
Components
A single cup of cellophane noodles weighs 140 g. The USDA Nutrient Database identifies 121 g of this serving size as coming from carbohydrates. The same serving contains no significant amounts of protein or fat. The remainder consists of minor amounts of other nutrients, indigestible material and water.
Caloric Value
The USDA Nutrient Database also indicates that a 1 cup serving of cellophane noodles contains 491 calories. Carbohydrates provide almost all of these at 490 calories per serving. Within the same measure of cellophane noodles, proteins and fats each deliver less than 1 calorie. This serving of cellophane noodles can deliver about 25 percent of the total amount of calories needed by the average person each day.
Vitamins
Cellophane noodles also contain modest amounts of vitamins. Thiamin is the most abundant of vitamins within a 1 cup serving at 0.2 mg or 16 percent of the daily recommended intake for the average adult. Other vitamins within cellophane noodles include vitamin E, niacin, vitamin B6, folate and pantothenic acid in small amounts.
Minerals
The same 1 cup serving of cellophane noodles provides some essential minerals within the diet. The highest levels of dietary minerals within cellophane noodles are iron at 3 mg per serving or 30 percent and selenium at about 11 mcg or 20 percent of the amount needed each day. Other less significant amounts include calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, zinc, copper and manganese.
Other Nutrients
Cellophane noodles provide some dietary fiber, delivering 1 g or 3 percent of the daily recommended intake within a single cup. The same measure of cellophane noodles contains no cholesterol, saturated fat or trans fat, and is also very low in sodium.
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