Phytochemical-Rich Colored Noodles Fortified with an Aqueous Extract of Clitoria ternatea Flowers

Abstract

Clitoria ternatea (CT) flowers are rich in phytochemicals. An innovative approach was taken to utilize CT flower extract (CTFE) as a functional ingredient with natural pigment by incorporating it into noodles. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of the CTFE amount (0–30%) on the color, texture, phytochemicals, and sensory quality of both dried and cooked noodles. Dried noodles with 30% CTFE had the highest total anthocyanins (9.48 μg/g), polyphenols (612 μg/g), DPPH radical scavenging capacity (165 μg TE/g), and reducing power (2203 μg TE/g). Cooking resulted in a significant decrease in the anthocyanin levels and blue color, while also increasing the greenness of the noodle. Both dried and cooked noodles with 20–30% CTFE showed a significantly higher color preference compared to the control sample. Despite a significant reduction in the cutting force, tensile strength, and extensibility of cooked noodles with 20–30% CTFE, the sensory attributes such as flavor, texture, and overall preferences were similar to those of noodles with 0–30% CTFE. Blue noodles with high phytochemicals, antioxidant activities, and desirable sensory qualities can be produced by the incorporation of 20–30% CTFE.