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Sesame Ramen Noodles with Crispy Tofu

Sesame ramen noodles with crispy tofu. This quick and easy recipe is packed with flavor. Serve it with crushed peanuts, sesame seeds and green onions for a light, yet satisfying vegan meal.
Course dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine vegan
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 2

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil, or light-tasting oil
  • 1 block (350g) extra-firm tofu, cut into cubes
  • Salt, to taste (optional)
  • Pepper, to taste (optional)
  • 3 packs (210g) ramen noodles (see notes)
  • 3 tablespoons peanuts, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1/2 cup green onions (scallions), thinly sliced

Sesame Peanut Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter, natural
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2 garlic cloves finely minced or grated
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1-2 teaspoons sriracha

Instructions

  • Start by preparing the tofu: Press the tofu for 15 minutes to make it extra crispy. This is optional, but recommended if you have the time. Once the tofu is pressed, heat the avocado oil in a large skillet (non-stick or cast-iron) over medium heat. Add the tofu and cook for 7-8 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 4-5 minutes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
  • While the tofu is cooking, boil water in a medium saucepan. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package's instructions.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the sauce: Whisk together the tahini, peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, ginger and sriracha.
  • Pour the sauce in the skillet with the tofu. Add the cooked (and drained) noodles and toss everything together. Serve with crushed peanuts, sesame seeds and green onions. Enjoy!

Notes

I use these ramen noodles. Each pack or portion is 70g. You could also use rice noodles or wheat pasta. If your ramen noodles come with a flavor pack, don’t use it!
I love to toast the crushed peanuts and sesame seeds to bring out their flavors. If you want to do the same, simply add the crushed peanuts and sesame seeds to a small skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes over medium heat, or until lightly golden and fragrant. If you skip this step, make sure to use roasted peanuts and toasted sesame seeds for the best results.
Feel free to serve the noodles with sauteed vegetables, such as sauteed bok choy, broccoli, broccolini, bell peppers or more. 
You can swap the crispy tofu with tempeh or edamame. If using edamame, you can skip one step. Simply add shelled frozen edamame to the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking.