Types of Rice Noodles: Wide, Thin, Vermicelli and Pad Thai Noodles Explained

Rice noodles are made from rice flour and water, which gives them a tender bite and a neutral flavor that soaks up sauces. But the types of rice noodles vary a lot in width and thickness, and that width decides whether a noodle is right for a stir-fry, a soup or a cold salad. This guide explains the main types, which to use for pad thai, how rice vermicelli differs from other rice noodles, and how to cook rice noodles so they stay springy.

The main types of rice noodles

Always follow the directions on the specific package, because soaking and boiling times differ by brand and width.

Pad thai noodles: which width to choose

Pad thai is traditionally made with flat rice noodles about a quarter of an inch wide. They are sturdy enough to toss in a hot pan with sauce, egg, tofu or shrimp, yet thin enough to stay tender. A Taste of Thai Rice Noodles fit this role, and the brand's Pad Thai Sauce makes the dish quick to assemble.

A common mistake is boiling pad thai noodles fully before frying. Because the noodles keep cooking in the pan, they should be soaked or cooked until just pliable, then finished with the sauce.

How to cook pad thai noodles

1. Soak or briefly cook the noodles following the package directions until flexible but still firm in the center.
2. Drain, rinse briefly with cool water and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
3. Stir-fry your protein and aromatics, then add the noodles and sauce.
4. Toss for a minute or two until the noodles absorb the sauce and turn tender.
5. Finish with bean sprouts, crushed peanuts, lime and herbs.

Wide rice noodles for hearty stir-fries

Wide rice noodles are broad, chewy ribbons that hold up to bold sauces and high heat. They are the base for dishes such as drunken noodles and pad see ew. Handle them gently after soaking, because wide noodles tear more easily, and use a large pan so they can sear rather than steam. Try A Taste of Thai Wide Rice Noodles with Garlic Chili Pepper Sauce for heat.

Rice vermicelli for salads, rolls and soups

Rice vermicelli are the thinnest rice noodles. They usually need only a short soak in hot water, which makes them ideal for fresh spring rolls, noodle salads and light broths. Serve them with Sweet Chili Sauce or Peanut Satay Sauce for dipping.

Vermicelli vs rice noodles: what is the difference?

Rice vermicelli are a type of rice noodle; the difference is thickness. Vermicelli are thin and round, cook very quickly and suit delicate dishes. Flat rice noodles are wider, chewier and better for stir-frying with sauce. Note that "vermicelli" can also describe thin wheat pasta, so check that the package says rice if you need a gluten-free-style option, and always confirm the ingredient label.

How to cook rice noodles without making them mushy

• Undercook slightly. Rice noodles soften further in hot sauce or broth.
• Rinse after draining. A quick cool rinse stops the cooking and removes surface starch.
• Add a little oil. This keeps strands from clumping while you prepare the rest of the dish.
• For soups, add noodles at the end, or place cooked noodles in the bowl and pour hot broth over them.
• Do not overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches for better texture.

Building a rice noodle range for your store

A small, well-chosen set covers most customer needs: one thin or vermicelli noodle for salads and rolls, one pad thai width for stir-fries and one wide noodle for hearty dishes. Place sauces and coconut milk nearby so shoppers can complete a recipe in one trip.

Browse the complete A Taste of Thai wholesale range. Before ordering, confirm units per case and date information; our guide to MOQs and case packs covers the details.

Rice noodle FAQ

What kind of noodles are used in pad thai?

Pad thai uses flat rice noodles about a quarter inch wide, sometimes sold as rice stick noodles.

Do you boil or soak rice noodles?

It depends on the width and brand. Thin noodles and vermicelli often need only soaking in hot water, while wider noodles may need brief boiling. Follow the package directions.

Are rice vermicelli and rice noodles the same?

Rice vermicelli are a thin type of rice noodle. Flat rice noodles are wider and chewier.

How do I stop rice noodles from sticking together?

Rinse them with cool water after draining and toss with a small amount of oil.

Can I buy rice noodles in bulk?

Yes. Choose a product such as A Taste of Thai Rice Noodles and request wholesale pricing. Case configuration and minimums are confirmed in your quote.