Improvement of microwave-dried, protein-enriched, instant noodles by using hydrocolloids

The addition of chicken meat, egg yolk and seaweed into instant noodles followed by drying using a continuous microwave oven instead of deep oil frying has been studied to increase the protein content of the protein-enriched, instant noodles (PEIN); however, the product has an inferior quality. This research aimed to improve the quality of the product by the addition of 3 hydrocolloids [guar gum (GG), xanthan gum (XG) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)] alone or in combination at 3 levels (0, 1 and 2 g/100 g flour). The results showed that GG, XG and CMC significantly increased the viscosity of the starch mixture. They also improved the PEIN qualities by significantly decreasing the cooking loss to less than the control. The highest maximum tension force and maximum distance were found with XG addition. Moreover, all hydrocolloids also promoted microstructural improvement with a smooth surface and uniform pore structure. The optimum conditions were the addition per 100 g wheat flour of 1.6 g GG and 1.9 g CMC. Finally, the PEIN was moderately liked by 70 panelists at the moderately like. In conclusion, PEIN with hydrocolloid supplementation had a better quality than without, was convenient to serve, had an acceptable taste, with higher fiber and lower oil contents and higher protein (more than 25% protein) when compared to traditional instant noodle.