Ingredients
Tofu and Toppings
- 1 block extra firm tofu (preferably high protein type)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Finely sliced cucumbers, for garnish
- Cilantro and/or green onion, for garnish
- Chili crisp, for topping
Sauce and Broth
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (e.g., Bachan’s Japanese BBQ sauce)
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste or roasted red chili paste
- 1 tablespoon white miso paste
- 1-2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water + 1 1/2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon roasted chicken or vegetable base (or substitute 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth)
- 1 (14-ounce) can full fat coconut milk
Noodles
- 6 ounces uncooked ramen noodles (two 3-ounce packets, noodles only)
Instructions
- Prep Tofu: Press the tofu using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Then grate the tofu on a box grater using the medium to large holes to create shreds.
- Crisp Tofu: Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu shreds and sauté them for 10-15 minutes until they turn golden and develop a lightly crisp, chewy texture.
- Sauce Tofu: Add the teriyaki sauce and grated garlic to the tofu in the pan. Continue sautéing for another 5-10 minutes to allow the tofu to caramelize and soak up the sauce. Add additional teriyaki sauce (1-2 tablespoons) if desired. Once done, transfer the tofu to a separate bowl and wipe out the pan.
- Make Ramen Broth: In the same pan, combine the red curry paste, white miso, peanut butter, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Heat and stir the mixture until it forms a thick paste. Then pour in the coconut milk and the prepared broth (water with bouillon or broth), whisking until smooth. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the broth slightly thickens and becomes creamy.
- Cook Ramen: While the broth simmers, boil the ramen noodles in a separate pot for 3-4 minutes until just cooked. Drain the noodles and add them to the broth mixture. Simmer together for another 1-2 minutes to coat the noodles well. Add more broth if a soupier consistency is preferred.
- Serve: Divide the noodles and broth into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the caramelized tofu, fresh cucumber slices, cilantro or green onions, and a spoonful of chili crisp. Enjoy the medley of flavors and textures!
Notes
- Pressing the tofu thoroughly helps achieve a better crispy texture when sautéed.
- You can adjust the amount of peanut butter and red curry paste to taste for creaminess and spice level.
- If you prefer a vegan version, use vegetable broth and ensure the teriyaki sauce is vegan.
- Adding extra broth can turn the dish into a soupier ramen bowl.
- Fresh herbs and chili crisp add brightness and a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian