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Flavorful Spicy Peanut Noodles with Crispy Tofu

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A quick and easy recipe featuring creamy spicy peanut noodles paired with crispy pan-fried tofu, perfect for a bold and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) rice noodles or spaghetti
  • 14 oz (400 g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying tofu)
  • 1/4 cup (64 g) creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha or chili garlic sauce
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2–3 tablespoons warm water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup (15 g) chopped roasted peanuts
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Press the extra-firm tofu for at least 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into roughly 1-inch cubes and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 8 oz rice noodles or pasta according to package instructions until just tender (6-8 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, Sriracha, and toasted sesame oil. Gradually add warm water until sauce is smooth and pourable but thick enough to coat noodles.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu cubes in a single layer for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. In a large bowl or the pot used for noodles, toss cooked noodles with the spicy peanut sauce. Add a splash of warm water if sauce is too thick.
  6. Add crispy tofu cubes to the noodles and gently toss to combine without breaking the tofu.
  7. Garnish with sliced green onions, chopped peanuts, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Press tofu thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Fry tofu without overcrowding and let it sear undisturbed for best results. Warm the peanut butter slightly if thick to help blend sauce smoothly. Adjust Sriracha to taste for spice level. Toast peanuts lightly for extra crunch. Sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy peanut noodles, crispy tofu, quick dinner, easy recipe, vegan, gluten-free option, peanut sauce, plant-based protein

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/flavorful-spicy-peanut-noodles-with-crispy-tofu-easy-homemade-recipe/