A wheat noodle typically served in the popular dish of the same name, which features a rich broth with a variety of toppings. Ramen noodles can be curly or straight. They are typically made with wheat flour, water, salt and kansui, an alkaline mineral that makes them chewy.

Thin noodles made from buckwheat flour or a combination of buckwheat and wheat flour. Soba noodles can be served hot in broth or cold with a dipping sauce. 

Made from rice flour, these are widely used in various Asian cuisines, especially in Thailand, Vietnam and China. They come in different widths, including vermicelli, pad Thai noodles and wide rice noodles.

Also known as cellophane noodles, these noodles can be transparent. They are made from mung bean starch or other starches. They are often used in filling for summer rolls. 

These wheat- and egg-based noodles are used as the foundation of chow mein and lo mein, which typically include vegetables, meat and a savory sauce. —Vonnie Williams