Sweet and Spicy Tofu
With Soba Noodles
If you're not a regular tofu cook (or even if you are), this simple tofu ish is perfect for you: no flour coating, no shallow frying, and no marinating required. Just pat the tofu dry (a small effort, but worth it), and let the high smoke point of vegetable oil create crisp edges, while sesame oil adds rich flavor. The ginger-and-garlic-infused soy sauce blends beautifully with both the tofu and noodles, delivering bite after bite of deliciousness. Enjoy it warm or cold, and don’t skimp on the fresh, crunchy veggies on top—especially for summer picnics, where this can easily serve 6 to 8 as a side dish
Ingredients
For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (for spice)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz soba noodles
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (to toss noodles)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (for extra flavor)
Toppings (optional):
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced cucumber
- Shredded carrots
- Fresh cilantro or basil
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings 4
Instructions:
1Press and Prep the Tofu
- Press the tofu for about 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture. After pressing, cut the tofu into cubes.
2. Coat and Cook the Tofu:
- Toss the tofu cubes with 2 tbsp soy sauce and let them marinate for about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the tofu with cornstarch to create a crispy coating.
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides (about 8-10 minutes). Set aside.
3.Cook the Soba Noodles:
- In a pot of boiling water, cook soba noodles according to package instructions (usually around 4-5 minutes).
- Drain the noodles, rinse under cold water, and toss with 1 tbsp sesame oil and 1 tbsp soy sauce to prevent sticking.
4Make the Sweet and Spicy Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, sriracha, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Heat the sauce in a small saucepan for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.
5Combine and Serve
- Toss the crispy tofu with the sweet and spicy sauce to coat evenly.
- Divide the soba noodles into bowls, top with the tofu, and garnish with your desired toppings (green onions, sesame seeds, cucumber, carrots, cilantro, etc.).
Enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Tofu with Soba Noodles!