Effect of wheat flour replacement with potato powder on dough rheology, physiochemical and microstructural properties of instant noodles

Wheat flour was replaced with potato powder (P.P) at 5 levels of 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, and 60% w/w to make instant noodles. The results showed that storage modulus (G') and loss modulus (G") decreased when P.P was part of the dough. The addition of P.P inhibited the formation of gluten network. The redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) of dough were increased with the increasing amount of P.P. Moreover, the gelatinization properties such as peak viscosity, trough, breakdown, and final viscosity decreased while pasting temperature fluctuated when>40% P.P was added. Moreover, moisture content, cooking loss, and water absorption increased significantly (p<0.0.5) when 40% P.P was added. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy showed that the gluten network became weak, with uneven voids, and more starch granules were observed when P.P was added. The findings suggested the feasibility of adding 40% P.P in noodles for acceptable physiochemical and functional properties. Practical applicationsPotato is the third most cultivated crop in the world having balanced nutrients and good source of carbohydrates. It is mostly used at domestic scale and application of its processing products (potato powder) is limited especially in noodles (consumed all over the world). The addition of potato powder in noodles can be an alternative to the wheat flour (replacement of gluten protein). The results of present study can provide insights for making noodles especially the optimum level of potato powder is very important for the quality production of noodles.