Tofu Soba Noodles Recipe

This delicious tofu soba noodles recipe brings the best of Japanese cuisine to your kitchen. It combines the unique texture of soba noodles with the fresh flavors of tofu and vegetables, all garnished with savory Asian spices. This is a dish that's both healthy and satisfying, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Photos of Tofu Soba Noodles Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be familiar to everyone. Soba noodles are Japanese buckwheat noodles, known for their slightly nutty flavor and firm, chewy texture. You can find them in the Asian foods section of most supermarkets. Arame seaweed is a type of kelp that has a sweet, mild flavor. It is commonly used in Japanese cuisine, and can be found in health food stores or online. Firm tofu absorbs the flavors of the dish it's cooked in, making it a versatile choice for this recipe. You can usually find it in the refrigerated section of your supermarket.

Ingredients for Tofu Soba Noodles

Soba noodles: These are a type of Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour. They have a unique, slightly nutty flavor and a firm, chewy texture.

Firm tofu: Tofu is made from soybeans and is a great source of protein. The firm variety holds its shape well during cooking.

Arame seaweed: This is a type of kelp that's sweet and mild in flavor. It's often used in Japanese cooking.

Scallion: This is a type of onion that has a mild, sweet flavor. It's used in a variety of Asian dishes.

Carrot: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and a nice crunch to this dish.

Ginger: Ginger adds a spicy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Sugar: Just a touch of sugar is used to balance out the flavors in this dish.

Rice vinegar: This is a type of vinegar made from fermented rice. It has a sweet, mild flavor.

Sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor to this dish.

One reader, Del Myrick says:

This tofu soba noodles recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the texture of the tofu and noodles is spot on. It's a delightful and healthy dish that's become a regular in my meal rotation. Highly recommend trying it out!

Del Myrick

Essential Techniques for Crafting Tofu Soba Noodles

How to brown tofu: Heat vegetable oil and red pepper flakes in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the tofu for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned.

How to cook soba noodles: Cook the soba noodles according to the manufacturer's instructions, then save the cooking water.

How to assemble the dish: Divide the cooked noodles between serving bowls using tongs. Then, divide the arame, tofu, scallions, and carrot strips among the bowls.

How to make the noodle sauce: Add ginger, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the reserved noodle water. Ladle the sauce into the bowls before serving.

How To Make Tofu Soba Noodles

Bring a taste of Asia to your tables by trying on this tofu soba noodles recipe made with sesame oil, soy sauce, vegetables, arame, ginger, and scallions.

Preparation: 8 minutes

Cooking: 17 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cupswater
1tbspsoy sauce
3ozsoba noodles,cooked
1tbspvegetable oil
1tspred pepper flakes
4ozfirm tofu
2tbsparame seaweed
1scallion
½carrot,peeled
¼tsppowdered ginger
½tspsugar
½tsprice vinegar
½tspsesame oil

Instructions

Heat the vegetable oil and the red pepper flakes in the skillet on medium-high heat. Brown the tofu by sautéing it for about 3 to 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Cook noodles according to the manufacturer’s instructions; save the cooking water.
Use tongs to divide the cooked noodles between the 3 serving bowls.
Divide the arame, tofu, scallions, and carrot strips among the bowls.
Add the ginger, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the noodle water. Ladle it into the bowls then serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 211.53kcal
Fat: 9.00g
Saturated Fat: 0.94g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.07g
Carbohydrates: 25.45g
Fiber: 1.41g
Sugar: 1.44g
Protein: 10.89g
Sodium: 541.95mg
Calcium: 286.45mg
Potassium: 247.95mg
Iron: 2.03mg
Vitamin A: 99.46µg
Vitamin C: 3.00mg

One Simple Technique to Elevate Your Tofu Soba Noodles

When sautéing tofu, it's important to press it first to remove excess moisture. This will help the tofu brown more effectively and absorb the flavors of the soy sauce and red pepper flakes. To press tofu, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place it on a flat surface, and put a heavy object on top, like a skillet or a can. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This simple step can significantly improve the texture and flavor of your tofu.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Soba Noodle Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and tofu in advance to save time during the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Consider using one pot for both boiling the soba noodles and cooking the tofu to minimize cleanup.

Multitask: While the tofu is browning, prepare the other ingredients to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Organized setup: Arrange all ingredients and utensils in an organized manner before starting the cooking process to streamline the workflow.

Quick soak: Instead of boiling the arame seaweed, soak it in warm water for a few minutes to save time.

Efficient slicing: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to quickly slice the scallions and carrots for the recipe.

Double batch: Consider making a larger batch and storing the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal option later in the week.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen tools such as a garlic press or a microplane grater to expedite the preparation of ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Tofu Soba Noodles Recipe

soba noodles - Substitute with buckwheat noodles: Buckwheat noodles are a suitable alternative to soba noodles as they are also made from buckwheat flour, providing a similar nutty flavor and texture.
firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh is a fermented soy product with a firmer texture and nuttier flavor, making it a great substitute for firm tofu in this recipe.

Presenting Tofu Soba Noodles for Maximum Appeal

Elevate the tofu: Carefully arrange the browned tofu on top of the soba noodles, ensuring it is the focal point of the dish.
Garnish with scallions and carrot: Finely slice the scallions and julienne the carrot to create visually appealing garnishes, delicately placing them on top of the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
Incorporate arame seaweed: Sprinkle the arame seaweed over the dish to add a touch of umami flavor and a visually striking element.
Drizzle with ginger-infused sauce: Using a steady hand, drizzle the ginger-infused sauce over the dish, ensuring each element is lightly coated for a harmonious blend of flavors.
Present in elegant serving bowls: Choose elegant, minimalist serving bowls that complement the sophistication of the dish, allowing the vibrant colors and textures to shine through.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Soba Noodle Dishes

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Tongs: A kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for picking up and manipulating food.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used to drain liquids from food.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients, preparing batters, and marinating foods.
Spatula: A flat, flexible kitchen tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Tongs: A kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for picking up and manipulating food.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups, stews, and sauces.
Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged perforations used for shredding or grating ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring dry and liquid ingredients in cooking and baking.
Skimmer: A kitchen utensil with a perforated bowl and a long handle, used for skimming foam or removing solid particles from liquids.
Strainer: A kitchen tool with a mesh or perforated surface used for straining liquids and separating solids from liquids.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil with a series of looped wires used for whipping, beating, and blending ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A cooking utensil made from wood, used for stirring, mixing, and serving various dishes.

Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Soba Noodle Dishes

To store leftover tofu soba noodles, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to enjoy again, reheat the noodles in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent the noodles from drying out.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To prevent the noodles from sticking together, toss them with a bit of sesame oil before freezing.
To reheat frozen noodles, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a small amount of liquid to help reconstitute the sauce and noodles.
It's important to note that while soba noodles can be frozen, their texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. They may be slightly softer than when freshly cooked.
If you plan to freeze the noodles, undercook them slightly before storing to ensure they don't become mushy when reheated.
Consider storing the tofu, vegetables, and noodles separately if you plan to freeze the dish. This will allow you to adjust the proportions and maintain better texture when reheating.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Soba Noodles

Reheat the leftover tofu soba noodles in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of vegetable oil or sesame oil to prevent sticking and to enhance the flavor. Stir-fry the noodles for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method will help restore the texture of the noodles and give them a fresh taste.
For a gentler reheating method, place the leftover tofu soba noodles in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a tablespoon of water to the bowl to help steam the noodles and prevent them from drying out. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the noodles are heated through. Be careful when removing the cover, as the steam can be hot.
If you prefer a cold noodle dish, consider transforming your leftover tofu soba noodles into a refreshing salad. Rinse the noodles under cold water to cool them down and remove any excess starch. Toss the noodles with your favorite vegetables, such as cucumber, carrots, or bell peppers. Add a protein source like edamame or boiled eggs for a complete meal. Dress the salad with a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of honey for a delightful balance of flavors.
For a comforting and warming option, reheat the leftover tofu soba noodles in a flavorful broth. Bring a pot of vegetable broth or dashi to a simmer. Add the noodles and any desired vegetables, such as bok choy or mushrooms. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through and the vegetables are tender. Serve the noodle soup hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

A Surprising Fact About Tofu Soba Noodles

The soba noodles in this recipe are made from buckwheat flour, which is a nutritious alternative to traditional wheat flour. Buckwheat is a gluten-free grain that is high in fiber and protein, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions or looking to add more nutrients to their meals. Additionally, the tofu in this recipe provides a good source of plant-based protein, making this dish a healthy and satisfying option for vegetarians and vegans.

Evaluating the Cost-Effectiveness of Homemade Soba Noodles

This tofu soba noodles recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Tofu is an affordable source of protein, and the other ingredients are generally budget-friendly. The dish offers a balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and economical option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, depending on the prices of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is This Soba Noodle Dish Healthy or Not?

This tofu soba noodles recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional aspects:

Tofu provides a good source of plant-based protein and is low in saturated fat
Soba noodles, made from buckwheat, are a nutritious alternative to traditional wheat noodles and are rich in fiber
Vegetables like scallions and carrots add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the dish
Arame seaweed is a great source of iodine, essential for thyroid function, and contains other beneficial nutrients like iron and calcium
The use of sesame oil and rice vinegar adds flavor without significantly increasing the calorie count

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to boost its nutritional value:

Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding more carrots, bell peppers, or leafy greens like spinach or bok choy. This will provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Reduce the amount of soy sauce used, as it is high in sodium. Consider using low-sodium soy sauce or replacing some of it with a sodium-free seasoning like coconut aminos
Opt for a healthier cooking oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, which are more heat-stable and contain beneficial fatty acids
Include a source of healthy fats, like sliced avocado or a sprinkle of chopped nuts, to increase satiety and provide essential nutrients

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Tofu Soba Noodle Dish

This tofu soba noodles recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of savory soy sauce, earthy arame seaweed, and the subtle heat from red pepper flakes creates a harmonious balance. The tender soba noodles and crispy browned tofu provide a satisfying contrast, while the scallions and carrots add a refreshing crunch. The addition of ginger, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the noodle water elevates the dish with a burst of aromatic and tangy notes. Overall, this recipe promises a delightful and wholesome dining experience.

Enhance Your Tofu Soba Noodles Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Miso-Glazed Eggplant: Roast the eggplant with a miso glaze until tender and caramelized, then sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch.

Ginger-Scallion Steamed Fish: Steam the fish with a fragrant ginger and scallion sauce, then drizzle with hot oil to release the aromatics and enhance the flavor.

Matcha Tiramisu: Create a unique twist on the classic tiramisu by incorporating matcha powder into the mascarpone filling, and garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and sweetness.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Tofu Soba Noodles

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken: This dish is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines tender chicken with fresh Thai basil and spicy chili peppers. It's a perfect balance of heat and savory flavors.

Mango Avocado Salad: A refreshing and vibrant salad that combines sweet, juicy mango with creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and a zesty lime dressing. It's a perfect side dish for any meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: A comforting and velvety soup made with roasted butternut squash, aromatic spices, and a touch of cream. It's a cozy and satisfying dish for chilly days.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Tofu Soba Noodles

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these colorful and refreshing caprese skewers, featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. A simple yet elegant appetizer to start off any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a refreshing burst of fruity goodness, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.

Why trust this Tofu Soba Noodles Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The combination of soba noodles and tofu provides a wholesome source of protein, while the addition of arame seaweed infuses a subtle umami essence. The use of soy sauce and rice vinegar enhances the dish with a harmonious blend of savory and tangy notes. With the inclusion of scallions and carrot strips, this recipe promises a vibrant and visually appealing presentation. The meticulous attention to detail in the preparation process ensures a delightful dining experience, earning the trust of discerning home cooks.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to make this tofu soba noodles recipe?

This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare.

Can I use other types of noodles instead of soba noodles?

Yes, you can substitute soba noodles with udon noodles or rice noodles if you prefer.

Is there a substitute for arame seaweed if I can't find it?

Yes, you can substitute arame seaweed with wakame or hijiki seaweed.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to customize the dish to your liking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the noodles are best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the dish just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.