Unveiling the quality formation mechanism of hand-stretched dried noodle based on typical flour and processing technology

This study examined the physicochemical properties of flour determining hand-stretched dried noodles (HSDN) and the mechanisms involved. The findings indicated that the flexural performance, cooking and eating quality of HSDN was primarily influenced by gluten characteristics. Additionally, porosity was significantly impacted by the addition of salt, while selecting flour with a higher glutenin to gliadin ratio and lower damaged starch content could potentially reduce the amount of salt required, contributing to the pore structure of HSDN. The HSDN obtained from long-term resting processes demonstrated superior cooking and eating quality in comparison to short-term ones. The extended resting period facilitated the expulsion of trapped air within the dough and the relaxation of the gluten network, resulting in improved dispersal and orientation of excessively aggregated gluten proteins during the stretching process. This led to the formation of more protein branches and stable β-sheet structures during subsequent resting periods.