Garlic Pepper Soba with Chili Roasted Tofu
Satisfy your cravings with this vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances the earthiness of soba noodles with the spicy crunch of chili roasted tofu. Garlic Pepper Soba with Chili Roasted Tofu is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of texture and taste that will leave you feeling nourished and delighted. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Let’s dive into why you should whip up this bowl of goodness!
Top Reasons to Make Garlic Pepper Soba with Chili Roasted Tofu
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, chili, and lime creates a tantalizing flavor profile that dances on your taste buds.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can have this delightful dish ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and tofu, this dish is a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe makes excellent leftovers, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
What’s in the Bowl
- Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu: Provides a hearty base and a great source of protein.
- Olive Oil: For roasting the tofu and adding richness to the dish.
- Chili Flakes: Adds a spicy kick that elevates the entire meal.
- Lime Zest and Juice: Brightens up the flavors with a fresh and tangy finish.
- Soba Noodles: These buckwheat noodles are a nutty and nutritious alternative to traditional pasta.
- Vegetable Stock: Infuses the noodles with flavor and depth.
- Garlic: A must-have for that aromatic essence.
- Green Onions: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Lacinato Kale: A nutrient-dense green that adds texture and flavor.
- Sea Salt and Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Lime Wedges and Extra Chili Flakes: For serving and an added punch of flavor.
Equipment & Tools
- Oven: For roasting the tofu to perfection.
- Baking Sheet: To place the tofu while roasting.
- Pot: For boiling the soba noodles.
- Colander: To drain the noodles after cooking.
- Large Skillet or Wok: For combining and sautéing the ingredients.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and tofu.
Garlic Pepper Soba with Chili Roasted Tofu in Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help crisp up the tofu, giving it a delightful texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing your firm or extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it in a clean towel and place something heavy on top for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 3: Season the Tofu
In a bowl, combine the cubed tofu with 2 teaspoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss until the tofu is well-coated.
Step 4: Roast the Tofu
Spread the seasoned tofu cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Cook the Soba Noodles
While the tofu is roasting, bring 3 cups of vegetable stock to a boil in a pot. Add the dry soba noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 4-5 minutes. Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.
Step 6: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add 2 cloves of peeled and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 7: Add the Greens
Add the thinly sliced lacinato kale and green onions to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
Step 8: Combine Everything
Add the cooked soba noodles to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and greens. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the noodles are well mixed with the vegetables. Season with sea salt and ground black pepper to taste.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your garlic pepper soba and top it with the chili roasted tofu. Serve with lime wedges and additional chili flakes for those who crave extra spice.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
- Shirataki Noodles: Swap soba noodles for shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.
- Cauliflower Rice: Use cauliflower rice instead of noodles for a grain-free alternative.
- Extra Vegetables: Increase the amount of kale or add other low-carb veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Reduce Tofu: Minimize the tofu portion to lower overall carb content.
Problems & Prevention
Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:
- Soggy Tofu: Make sure to press your tofu well to remove excess moisture before seasoning and roasting.
- Overcooked Noodles: Keep an eye on the soba noodles while cooking, as they can become mushy if overcooked.
- Too Spicy: Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice tolerance, and taste as you go!
- Flavorless Dish: Don’t skip the seasoning! Properly season each component of the dish for a well-rounded flavor.
Save It for Later
If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, store your Garlic Pepper Soba with Chili Roasted Tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water or vegetable stock to rehydrate the noodles as they can dry out in the fridge.
Common Questions
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute soba noodles with udon, rice noodles, or even whole wheat spaghetti for a different texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan, as it uses tofu, vegetables, and plant-based stock. Enjoy it as is!
What can I add for extra protein?
You can add edamame, chickpeas, or even a sprinkle of hemp seeds to boost the protein content of this dish.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Ensure you use gluten-free soba noodles made from 100% buckwheat, as some brands may contain wheat. Always check the labels.
Keep Cooking
- Sally’s Baking Addiction for more delightful recipes.
- Pinch of Yum for hearty and wholesome meals.
- Minimalist Baker for simple and delicious plant-based dishes.
That’s a Wrap
Garlic Pepper Soba with Chili Roasted Tofu is a dish that brings excitement and nourishment to your table. With its bold flavors and delightful textures, it’s a meal that you can feel good about enjoying any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a bowl of deliciousness that is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Happy cooking!
Garlic Pepper Soba with Chili Roasted Tofu
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into cubes.
- Step 3: In a bowl, combine tofu with olive oil, chili flakes, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Step 4: Spread tofu on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 5: Boil vegetable stock in a pot, add soba noodles, and cook until al dente (4-5 minutes). Drain.
- Step 6: In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Step 7: Add kale and green onions; sauté until kale is wilted.
- Step 8: Add cooked noodles to the skillet, mix gently, and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 9: Serve topped with roasted tofu, lime wedges, and extra chili flakes.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently, adding a splash of water or stock to rehydrate the noodles.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables.
