If you're a fan of Asian cuisine or just looking for a quick, protein-packed meal, this Cold Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Red Peppers recipe is the perfect dish. It incorporates firm tofu and chow mein noodles as a mainstay, while the peanut sauce adds a creamy, savory element. Bright, crunchy red bell peppers bring a pop of color and a dose of vitamins.
Ingredients like Chinese chow mein noodles, Chinese chile-garlic sauce, and Asian sesame oil might not be in your everyday pantry. These specialty items can be found in the international aisle or Asian food section of most supermarkets. Remember to choose a firm tofu that can hold its shape in the dish.
Ingredients for Cold Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Red Peppers
Tofu: Protein-packed tofu provides a satisfying meaty texture.
Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish.
Chinese chow mein noodles: These are the base of the dish, providing a satisfying chew.
Creamy peanut butter: This gives the sauce a rich, creamy texture and flavor.
Chicken stock: Adds depth to the sauce.
Rice vinegar: Brings a tangy note to balance the savory elements.
Chinese chile garlic sauce: Adds a spicy kick to the sauce.
Fresh ginger: Brings a warm, spicy flavor.
Garlic: Adds a savory undertone.
Asian sesame oil: Imparts a toasted, nutty flavor.
Red bell peppers: Adds a sweet, crunchy element to the dish.
Scallions: Brings a savory, oniony note.
Cilantro sprigs: Used for garnish, they add a fresh, herby touch.
One reader, Hillel Delrio says:
This cold peanut noodles with tofu and red peppers recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a perfect blend of savory and nutty, and the textures are delightful. The tofu adds a nice protein boost, and the red peppers bring a refreshing crunch. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Techniques Required
How to marinate tofu: Toss the tofu with soy sauce and let it stand for 10 minutes to infuse flavor into the tofu.
How to cook chow mein noodles: Boil a large saucepan of water, add the chow mein noodles, and cook until they are al dente. Then, drain and rinse the noodles under cold water.
How to make peanut sauce: In a blender, combine soy sauce, peanut butter, chicken stock, rice vinegar, chile-garlic sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Puree until a smooth sauce forms.
How to garnish with cilantro: Sprinkle the dish with fresh cilantro sprigs before serving to add a burst of fresh flavor.
How To Make Cold Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Red Peppers
Take noodles to the next level with this cold recipe for peanut noodles. The rich flavors are balanced out by the silkiness of the tofu & the crisp peppers.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½lbfirm tofu
- ¼cupsoy sauce,(plus 2 tbsp)
- ¾lbchinese chow mein noodles,or thin linguine
- ½cupcreamy peanut butter
- ½cupchicken stock,or low sodium broth
- 1tbsprice vinegar
- ¾tspchinese chile garlic sauce
- 1tbspfresh ginger,chopped
- 1clovegarlic
- ¾tspasian sesame oil
- 2red bell peppers
- 3scallions
- cilantro sprigs
Instructions
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In a large bowl, toss the tofu with 2 tablespoons of the soy sauce and let stand for 10 minutes.
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Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.
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Add the chow mein noodles and cook until they are al dente.
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Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water.
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Shake out the excess water and add the noodles to the tofu and soy sauce.
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Meanwhile, in a blender, combine the remaining soy sauce with the peanut butter, chicken stock, rice vinegar, chile-garlic sauce, ginger, garlic and sesame oil and puree until a smooth sauce forms.
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Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles, add the sliced red bell peppers and scallions and toss.
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Garnish with cilantro and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 654.69kcal
- Fat: 26.81g
- Saturated Fat: 5.30g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.06g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.48g
- Carbohydrates: 77.26g
- Fiber: 7.51g
- Sugar: 8.34g
- Protein: 31.16g
- Cholesterol: 72.34mg
- Sodium: 955.32mg
- Calcium: 455.51mg
- Potassium: 802.26mg
- Iron: 6.27mg
- Vitamin A: 121.29µg
- Vitamin C: 79.34mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Cold Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Red Peppers
When preparing the tofu, it's crucial to press it before marinating. This process involves wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top, such as a cast iron skillet or a stack of cookbooks. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes. This will remove excess water from the tofu, allowing it to absorb the soy sauce more effectively, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, when blending the ingredients for the peanut sauce, start at a low speed and gradually increase to prevent the ingredients from splashing and to ensure a smoother consistency.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cold Peanut Noodles
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and tofu in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly blend the peanut sauce ingredients together.
Boil water in advance: Boil the water for the noodles while prepping other ingredients to save time.
Multi-task: While the noodles are cooking, prepare the peanut sauce and chop the vegetables to maximize efficiency.
Organize ingredients: Arrange all the ingredients and utensils in an organized manner before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Quick marination: Speed up the marination process for the tofu by gently pressing out excess moisture before tossing with soy sauce.
Substitute Ingredients For Cold Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Red Peppers Recipe
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firm tofu – Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a similar firm texture and nutty flavor, making it a great alternative to tofu in this recipe.
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chinese chow mein noodles – Substitute with soba noodles: Soba noodles have a similar thickness and chewy texture, and their nutty flavor complements the peanut sauce well.
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creamy peanut butter – Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter provides a rich and creamy texture similar to peanut butter, and adds a delicious nuttiness to the dish.
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chicken stock – Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can provide a similar depth of flavor and richness to the dish without the meat-based flavor of chicken stock.
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red bell peppers – Substitute with orange bell peppers: Orange bell peppers have a similar sweet and crisp texture, adding a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
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scallions – Substitute with chives: Chives have a mild onion flavor and a similar green color, making them a suitable replacement for scallions in this recipe.
Presentation Tips for Cold Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Red Peppers
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Elevate the plating: When presenting the cold peanut noodles with tofu and red peppers, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a large, shallow bowl or a sleek plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
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Incorporate height and depth: Arrange the noodles and tofu in a way that creates visual interest. Consider using a ring mold to stack the noodles and tofu, allowing them to stand tall on the plate. This adds a sense of sophistication to the dish.
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Garnish with precision: Carefully place the sliced red bell peppers and scallions on top of the noodles, ensuring that each element is strategically positioned. Sprinkle fresh cilantro sprigs over the dish to add a pop of color and a touch of herbal freshness.
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Emphasize symmetry and balance: Pay attention to the placement of each component to achieve a harmonious balance on the plate. Aim for symmetry in the arrangement of the noodles, tofu, and garnishes, creating a visually pleasing presentation.
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Highlight the sauce: Drizzle the creamy peanut sauce over the noodles in a deliberate and artistic manner. Use a small spoon to create elegant swirls or patterns with the sauce, drawing attention to its velvety texture and rich flavor.
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Consider the vessel: Select a vessel that complements the overall aesthetic of the dish. Whether it's a modern ceramic bowl or a minimalist plate, the vessel should enhance the presentation without overshadowing the star ingredients.
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Attention to detail: Take a moment to inspect the final presentation for any imperfections. Wipe the edges of the plate to ensure a clean presentation, and make any necessary adjustments to perfect the overall visual appeal.
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Final touch – edible flowers: For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding a few edible flowers as a delicate and sophisticated garnish. Choose edible flowers that complement the flavors of the dish, such as nasturtium or pansies, and place them strategically for a stunning finishing touch.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe
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Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for chopping, slicing, and preparing ingredients.
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Chef's knife: A versatile, multipurpose knife for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
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Blender: A kitchen appliance used to puree, mix, or emulsify food and other substances.
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Large saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling, simmering, and preparing sauces.
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Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations for draining liquids from food.
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Tongs: A utensil with two arms that are joined at one end, used for picking up and manipulating food.
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Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
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Spatula: A flat, flexible kitchen tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
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Large bowl: A vessel for mixing and combining ingredients.
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Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for heating and cooking sauces, soups, and other liquids.
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Strainer: A device used for separating solid matter from a liquid, typically with a mesh screen or perforated holes.
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Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients.
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Wine glass: A stemmed glass designed for serving and enjoying wine.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for This Recipe
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To store leftover cold peanut noodles, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The noodles may absorb some of the sauce over time, so you can add a splash of water or chicken stock when reheating to loosen the sauce if needed.
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If you want to freeze the cold peanut noodles, it's best to freeze the noodles and tofu separately from the peanut sauce. Cook the noodles until they are slightly underdone, rinse them under cold water, and toss with a bit of sesame oil to prevent sticking. Place the noodles and tofu in separate freezer-safe containers or bags.
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To freeze the peanut sauce, pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the sauce cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This allows you to thaw only the amount of sauce you need for future meals.
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When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cold peanut noodles, thaw the noodles, tofu, and peanut sauce cubes in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the noodles and tofu in the microwave or a skillet, and heat the peanut sauce cubes in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Toss the reheated components together and add the fresh red bell peppers, scallions, and cilantro before serving.
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For best quality, consume the frozen cold peanut noodles within 2-3 months.
How To Reheat Leftovers
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To reheat leftover cold peanut noodles with tofu and red peppers, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the noodles from drying out during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the noodles are heated through and the tofu is warm.
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Alternatively, you can reheat the cold peanut noodles in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a tablespoon of water or chicken stock to the skillet and place the noodles in the pan. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are heated through and the liquid has been absorbed, about 3-5 minutes. If the noodles seem dry, add a little more water or stock as needed.
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For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the tofu separately in a skillet with a little oil. Heat the oil over medium-high heat and add the tofu, stirring occasionally, until it is crispy and heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Add the crispy tofu to the reheated noodles and toss to combine.
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If you have a steamer basket, you can also reheat the cold peanut noodles by placing them in the basket over a pot of boiling water. Cover the steamer basket with a lid and steam for 2-3 minutes, until the noodles are heated through and the red peppers are tender-crisp.
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No matter which method you choose, be sure to taste the reheated cold peanut noodles and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more soy sauce, rice vinegar, or chile-garlic sauce to brighten up the flavors. If the noodles seem dry, you can also toss them with a little sesame oil or peanut butter to add moisture and flavor.
Random Fact about Cold Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Red Peppers
The recipe for cold peanut noodles with tofu and red peppers is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, and fresh vegetables. This dish is a great source of plant-based protein and can be enjoyed as a refreshing meal on a warm day. The combination of tofu, red peppers, and scallions provides a variety of textures and flavors, while the peanut sauce adds a rich and savory element to the dish. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this recipe offers a satisfying and flavorful dining experience. Enjoy creating this dish in your kitchen!
Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This cold peanut noodles with tofu and red peppers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as tofu, noodles, and red peppers, are reasonably priced and widely available. The addition of peanut butter and soy sauce enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Noodle Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The cold peanut noodles with tofu and red peppers recipe is a relatively healthy dish, but there are a few aspects that could be improved:
- The recipe includes a good source of protein from the tofu and peanut butter, which is essential for maintaining and building muscle mass
- Red bell peppers provide a good amount of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health
- The dish is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a wider range of diets
- However, the recipe is high in sodium due to the soy sauce and peanut butter, which can be a concern for those with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular issues
- The chow mein noodles are likely made from refined wheat flour, which is low in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of soy sauce used or opt for a low-sodium variety to decrease the overall sodium content
- Use whole grain noodles instead of traditional chow mein noodles to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
- Add more vegetables, such as carrots, bok choy, or snow peas, to boost the vitamin and mineral content and provide more texture and flavor
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils to reduce the amount of processed ingredients in the sauce
- Experiment with different protein sources, such as edamame or chickpeas, to vary the nutrient profile and taste of the dish
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Noodle Dish
The recipe for cold peanut noodles with tofu and red peppers is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The creamy peanut sauce, combined with the tender tofu and crunchy red peppers, creates a harmonious balance. The use of chow mein noodles adds a satisfying chewiness to the dish. The blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic infuses the dish with a depth of savory umami flavors. The addition of scallions and cilantro provides a fresh and aromatic finish. This dish is a perfect choice for a light and refreshing meal, and it offers a delightful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors.
Why trust this Cold Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Red Peppers Recipe:
This recipe for cold peanut noodles with tofu and red peppers offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy peanut butter and chicken stock creates a rich and savory sauce that coats the chow mein noodles perfectly. The addition of firm tofu provides a satisfying protein element, while the red bell peppers and scallions contribute a refreshing crunch. The use of fresh ginger and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth. Overall, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of Asian-inspired ingredients that will surely captivate your taste buds.
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