Green tea is not only a deliciously refreshing beverage but also a versatile ingredient that can be used in the kitchen to enhance a surprising variety of dishes. One such dish is green tea soba noodles, a light and refreshing meal perfect for both warm summer days and a nutritious lunch. The subtle flavor of green tea combined with the savory, nutty taste of soba noodles makes this dish not only unique but also healthy. Here’s a complete recipe so you can make your own green tea soba noodles!

What are soba noodles?

Soba noodles are thin Japanese noodles made from buckwheat flour, giving them a delicious, nutty flavor and a light brown color. Soba noodles are nutritious, rich in protein, fiber, and minerals, and a good alternative to traditional wheat noodles. Additionally, they are gluten-free, depending on the buckwheat flour ratios in the dough, making them suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Why use green tea in soba noodles?

Green tea is well-known for its health benefits, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It is an excellent source of catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which can strengthen your immune system and boost your metabolism. By incorporating green tea into soba noodles, you add a subtle earthy flavor without overwhelming the dish, while also enhancing the nutritional value of your meal.

Recipe: green tea soba noodles

Ingredients (for 2-3 people):

• 200g soba noodles
• 500 ml water
• 2 tsp loose green tea (e.g., Sencha or Bancha)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional for a slight sweetness)
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 2 tbsp finely chopped spring onion
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro or shiso leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles: Bring 500 ml of water to a boil and add the green tea. Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes so the flavor is well absorbed. Then, remove the tea leaves and use this green tea water to cook the soba noodles. Cook the soba noodles according to the package instructions, usually between 5 and 7 minutes.
2. Rinse the noodles: When the noodles are done, drain them and rinse thoroughly under cold water. This prevents them from becoming sticky and gives the dish a fresh, cool base.
3. Make the dressing: While the noodles are cooking, you can prepare the dressing. Mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey (or agave syrup), and grated ginger in a bowl. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. Toss the noodles with the dressing: Place the cold soba noodles in a large bowl and pour the dressing over them. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing. Now add the finely chopped spring onion and toasted sesame seeds, and toss again.
5. Serve: Divide the noodles into plates or bowls. Garnish the dish with extra toasted sesame seeds and, optionally, some fresh cilantro or shiso leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
6. Optional: You can personalize these green tea soba noodles by adding extra ingredients. Consider sliced avocado for a creamy texture, radish slices for a crunchy bite, or grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.

Tips for the perfect green tea soba noodles:

• Use quality tea: Since the tea is an important part of this dish, it’s recommended to use good-quality green tea. Japanese green teas, like Sencha or Bancha, offer the best flavor and aroma for these kinds of recipes. It’s unnecessary to opt for premium teas like Gyokuro, as it might be overkill. Also, avoid blends; choose pure tea!
• Rinse the soba noodles thoroughly: After cooking, it’s essential to rinse the noodles under cold water. This removes excess starch and prevents the noodles from sticking together. Cold soba noodles taste best in this dish as the flavors of the dressing are better absorbed.
• Adjust the flavor: The dressing can be adjusted to taste. If you enjoy a spicy kick, you can add chili flakes or a few drops of chili oil. For a sweeter flavor, add more honey or agave syrup.
• Serve with side dishes: This dish can be served as a light meal, but you can complement it with side dishes like miso soup, seaweed salad, or pickled vegetables for a complete Japanese dining experience.

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients thanks to the green tea and soba noodles. It’s a light yet nutritious meal that fits perfectly with a healthy lifestyle. By adding green tea, the dish gains a subtle depth of flavor, while you benefit from the health advantages of this unique ingredient.

With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a tasty and nourishing meal that satisfies both the foodie and the health-conscious eater. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or just looking for a creative way to incorporate green tea into your diet, these green tea soba noodles are an excellent choice.