Craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy meal? Look no further! This Bean Curd Noodles recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet satisfying enough to feel like a proper homemade meal. This recipe showcases the versatility of bean curd, creating a flavorful and light dish packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is accessible and will quickly become one of your favorite easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm bean curd, pressed and cubed
- 8 oz dried noodles (egg noodles, udon, or ramen work well)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup snow peas
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Make sure not to overcook them; you want them al dente.
Sauté the Vegetables:
-
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Add the bell pepper and broccoli and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
-
Add the snow peas and continue to stir-fry for another minute.
Combine and Finish:
-
Add the cubed bean curd to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches for even cooking.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
-
Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables in the skillet. Toss to combine and coat everything evenly.
-
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips for the Best Bean Curd Noodles:
-
Pressing the Bean Curd: Pressing the bean curd removes excess water, resulting in a firmer texture and better browning when you sauté it. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes.
-
Don't Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and aim for al dente.
-
Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, rice vinegar, or honey to your liking. You can also experiment with other sauces like oyster sauce or hoisin sauce.
-
Add More Veggies: This recipe is easily customizable! Add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini.
Variations:
-
Spicy Bean Curd Noodles: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
-
Peanut Noodles: Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with the sauce for a creamy and nutty flavor.
-
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This delicious and healthy Bean Curd Noodles recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Enjoy!