Ingredients

  • Soba Noodles with Tofu in Spicy Garlic Sauce and Avocados
  • 10-12 ounces soba noodles, dry
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 2 avocados, cut in half-inch chunks
  • 1 tomato diced
  • 1 piece scallion, sliced, for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon roasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 1 handful roasted seaweed, cut in strips, for garnish
  • Tofu in Spicy Garlic Sauce (recipe below)
  • Tofu in Spicy Garlic Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 3-4 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 2 packets 12-14 oz extra firm tofu, cut in half-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or gluten free tamari sauce)
  • 1-2 tablespoons chili garlic paste/sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh jalapeno pepper, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon potato (or cornstarch) mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water
  • 4-8 scallions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)

Method

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add soba noodles and cook until al dente, about 4 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Drain again.
  • Transfer the noodles to a large bowl. Toss with sesame oil and soy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning. Toss with sesame seeds.
  • Transfer to individual serving bowls or one large serving bowl. Top noodles with spicy tofu, followed by avocados, tomatoes, scallions, and sesame seeds. Using kitchen scissors, cut strips of seaweed on top.
  • In a large saucepan saute ginger and garlic in olive oil, stirring until fragrant. Add tofu and saute about 10 minutes.
  • Add rest of ingredients, leaving scallions until last. Cook until sauce thickens slightly (just a couple of minutes).
  • Add orange juice and stir. Add scallions, toss and serve over rice, other grains or soba noodles.
  • Note: In other versions I've added sliced mushrooms, broccoli, or other vegetables that might add color, flavor or texture. Feel free to scale back, omit, or add more chili garlic sauce or jalapeno pepper according to personal preferences.