Flavor-Packed Tofu Ramen

why make this recipe

Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles are perfect for a quick and tasty meal. This recipe is simple and customizable, making it great for any night of the week. You can adjust the flavors to match your preferences, whether you like it sweet, spicy, or tangy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to include a variety of veggies and proteins, such as tofu or mushrooms. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also reassuring to know you can whip it up in no time.

how to make Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

Ingredients:

2 servings dry instant ramen noodle cakes (or other noodles of choice, around 140 g total)
10 oz extra firm tofu
Veggies or mushrooms of choice (sliced)
1 cup water (or vegetable broth)
5-7 tbsp soy sauce (adjust according to desired taste)
1.5 tsp dark soy sauce (optional for color)
2-3 tbsp corn starch (see notes)
1-3 tbsp sugar (or other liquid sweetener, adjust according to desired sweetness)
2 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar, or lemon juice, adjust according to desired sourness)
1/4 tsp ground pepper
1/2 tbsp chili garlic sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 cloves garlic (minced, optional)
Chopped scallions (for topping)
Sesame seeds (for topping)

Directions:

Start by mixing all the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Make sure everything is well combined. You can adjust the sauce based on how sweet, salty, sour, or spicy you want it. Set the sauce aside for later.
Boil some water in a small pot over high heat. Once it starts to boil, add the ramen or noodles of your choice. Cook them for a shorter time than the package instructions, about 2-3 minutes less, so they stay chewy. Drain the noodles and set them aside. Optionally, rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
While the noodles are boiling, heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Sauté the veggies, mushrooms, or tofu for a few minutes, cooking until they are done to your liking.
Give the sauce another good mix to ensure nothing is stuck at the bottom. Pour the sauce into the pan with the cooked vegetables and tofu. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken. Stir continuously to prevent it from sticking.
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the drained noodles to the pan. Mix everything well, coating the noodles with the sauce.
Cook the noodles on medium-high heat for about 3 minutes, allowing them to absorb some of the sauce and to thicken it. Taste your noodles and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, sweetener, or pepper as needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.

how to serve Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

Serve the Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles hot, straight from the pan. You can add some extra toppings like sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or even crushed chili flakes for an added kick. This dish pairs well with some steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

how to store Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

If you have leftovers, let them cool down to room temperature before storing. Place the noodles in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, reheat in a pan over low heat and add a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

tips to make Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles

Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies based on what you have at home.
To make it more filling, add a soft-boiled egg or some cooked chicken.
For extra flavor, consider marinating the tofu before cooking it.

variation

You can easily change the proteins or veggies in this recipe. Try using different noodles like udon or soba. You could also make it vegetarian by omitting the tofu and adding more vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Yes, you can use gluten-free noodles if you prefer. Just make sure to check the cooking time.

Is there a way to make it spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more chili garlic sauce or some red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze these noodles as the texture may change when reheated. It’s best to store them in the fridge for a few days.