Description
Enjoy crispy pan-fried tofu with tender noodles and vibrant vegetables in a savory, customizable sauce. This quick and easy plant-based meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 6 oz noodles of choice (rice noodles, udon, or soba)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup mushrooms (shiitake or cremini), sliced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut into cubes and toss with cornstarch for extra crispiness.
- Cook the Tofu: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and pan-fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Boil water and cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan used for tofu, add a little more oil. Stir-fry bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and cabbage for 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked noodles and crispy tofu to the pan with vegetables. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together until well coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for extra freshness.
Notes
- Gluten-Free: Use rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Spicy: Increase sriracha or add chili oil for extra heat.
- Protein Boost: Add edamame, tempeh, or a soft-boiled egg.
- Vegetable Options: Try zucchini, snap peas, or baby spinach.
- Low-Carb: Substitute noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: Tofu Noodle Bowls, Crispy Tofu, Vegan Dinner, Quick Meal, Asian-Inspired Noodles