Noddles:

  Certainly! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make wheat-based noodles from scratch:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or semolina flour for a firmer texture)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1-2 tablespoons water (if needed)

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Fork
• Rolling pin
• Knife or pizza cutter
• Clean, floured surface
• Plastic wrap or damp cloth

Instructions:

Mixing the Dough:

a. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.

b. Crack the eggs into the well.

c. Using a fork, gently beat the eggs while slowly incorporating the flour from the edges of the well. Continue mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

Kneading the Dough:

a. Turn the dough out onto a clean, floured surface.

b. Knead the dough with your hands for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. Push the dough away from you with the heel of your hand, then fold it back over itself and repeat the process.

Resting the Dough:

a. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.

b. Let the dough rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and makes the dough more pliable.

Rolling and Cutting the Noodles:

a. After resting, divide the dough into smaller portions for easier handling.

b. Take one portion and flatten it with your hands into a rough rectangular shape.

c. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough into a thin, even sheet. Start from the center and roll towards the edges, rotating the dough occasionally to maintain an even thickness. Aim for about 1/16 to 1/8 inch (1.5 to 3 mm) thickness.

d. If the dough starts sticking to the surface or rolling pin, dust it with a little flour.

e. Once you have a thin sheet of dough, you can cut the noodles into your preferred shape and thickness.

f. For simple noodles, you can fold the sheet of dough several times and then cut thin strips with a knife or pizza cutter. For wider noodles, cut broader strips.

Drying the Noodles (optional):

a. If you want to store the noodles for later use, you can let them air dry for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. Arrange the cut noodles in loose bundles or spread them on a floured surface to prevent sticking.

Cooking the Noodles:

a. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

b. Add the freshly made noodles to the boiling water.

c. Cook the noodles for 2-4 minutes or until they are al dente (firm to the bite). The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the noodles and personal preference.

d. Stir the noodles gently to prevent them from sticking together.

e. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander.

Now, your homemade wheat-based noodles are ready to be used in your favorite noodle dishes! You can enjoy them with various sauces, stir-fries, soups, or other recipes of your choice. Remember that you can also get creative by adding herbs, vegetables, or other ingredients directly to the dough before rolling and cutting to create flavored or colorful noodles. Enjoy your culinary adventure!