Tofu Peanut Noodle Bowl

Name: Tofu Peanut Noodle Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g rice noodles; 2 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli); 200g firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 2 tablespoons peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1 clove garlic, minced; Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Nourishing Meal Ideas

I absolutely adore this Tofu Peanut Noodle Bowl for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The creamy peanut sauce, paired with hearty tofu and fresh vegetables, creates an irresistible dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a go-to recipe in our kitchen, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something delicious yet easy to prepare. The best part? It comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick dinner without sacrificing taste or quality.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-23T15:14:19.094Z

When I first experimented with flavors for this Tofu Peanut Noodle Bowl, I was amazed at how well the peanut butter and soy sauce complemented each other. By mixing these two ingredients, I not only created a rich, creamy sauce but also added a depth of flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Also, I like to add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving for a touch of brightness that elevates the whole dish.

The key to getting the tofu just right is all in the pressing. I always press my tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, which allows it to soak up the flavors of the marinade. This little step makes a big difference in texture and taste, resulting in crispy, flavorful bites that contrast beautifully with the smooth noodles.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A tantalizing blend of peanut butter and soy sauce that packs a punch
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious ingredients that make for a filling and healthy meal

Cooking the Perfect Noodles

Achieving the right texture for your rice noodles is key in this recipe. Make sure to boil water in a large pot; this helps prevent the noodles from sticking together. Once added, stir them gently during cooking. Aim for al dente texture, as they will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the sauce. If they become too soft, they may turn mushy and lose their structure, so keep a close eye on the clock.

After cooking, it's important to drain the noodles well and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps preserve their firmness. You can also toss them lightly with a few drops of sesame oil to prevent sticking, adding a nice flavor that complements both the tofu and the peanut sauce.

Getting the Tofu Just Right

For this recipe, using firm tofu is essential as it holds its shape well during cooking. To press the tofu, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-30 minutes. This process removes excess moisture and helps the tofu absorb the flavors of the sauce better. When frying, allow the tofu cubes enough space in the skillet to promote even browning; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.

During cooking, keep the heat at medium to medium-high. This ensures the tofu develops a delightful golden crust on the outside but remains tender on the inside. If you find the tofu sticking to the skillet, try using a non-stick pan or add a bit more sesame oil for lubrication.

Customize and Store

Feel free to tailor the vegetable mix in this bowl to suit your preferences or seasonal availability. Broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers are fantastic, but snap peas, baby corn, or even zucchini work beautifully too. Just be mindful of cooking times; you want the vegetables to stay vibrant and tender-crisp. You can add them to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking to preserve their texture and color.

If you're looking to meal prep, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture. For longer storage, consider freezing the tofu and noodles separately, as freezing can change the texture of the vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

200g rice noodles
2 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)

For the Tofu and Sauce

200g firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Noodles

In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the rice noodles. Cook according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Tofu

In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, minced ginger, and garlic until smooth.

Combine and Serve

In the skillet, add the cooked noodles, vegetables, and tofu. Pour the peanut sauce over the top and toss everything together to coat well. Serve garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chili flakes or Sriracha to the peanut sauce. You can also use different types of noodles or veggies based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

This Tofu Peanut Noodle Bowl can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions. For some added heat, consider sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes or adding a few dashes of sriracha to the peanut sauce. It's a perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a potluck with friends. Pair it with a light salad or some spring rolls for a well-rounded meal.

If you're looking to impress, don’t forget the garnishes! Chopped scallions add a fresh, zingy note, while sesame seeds contribute a nice crunch. You might also try adding fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil to enhance the dish further. These small touches elevate not just the flavor but also the presentation.

Dietary Modifications

This recipe is inherently adaptable for those with dietary restrictions. To make it vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup, which fits perfectly with the flavors involved. If you're avoiding gluten, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, making this bowl a great choice for gluten-sensitive diets.

If you're looking for a protein alternative to tofu, consider using chickpeas or tempeh, which can be seasoned and cooked in a similar way. Both provide a nice protein boost and can easily absorb the delicious peanut sauce, keeping the dish filling and satisfying.

Scaling the Recipe

One of the best things about this Tofu Peanut Noodle Bowl is its scalability. Whether cooking for one or preparing a feast for family or friends, this recipe can be easily adjusted. Simply multiply the number of noodles and tofu based on servings needed, while maintaining the proportions of the sauce for optimal flavor balance.

If you're cooking for a crowd, you can also prepare the components—noodles, sauce, and tofu—ahead of time. Just reheat individually before assembly to maintain the original texture of the ingredients. This way, everyone can enjoy a fresh bowl without feeling rushed during meal prep!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of tofu?

Yes, you can use silken tofu for a softer texture, but firm tofu works best for this dish.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply replace honey with maple syrup for a fully vegan option.

→ What vegetables go well in this dish?

You can use any vegetables you like! Broccoli, snap peas, and zucchini are great options.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just store the noodles and sauce separately in the fridge and combine when ready to serve.