Easy Vegan Stir-Fry Noodles: Your Quick, Versatile & Leftover-Friendly Meal

2 settimane fa

Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal that helps you clear out your refrigerator? Look no further! This adaptable vegan stir-fried noodle recipe by chef Yuliya, a star on abillion known for so many great dishes, is your perfect solution. It's designed to make the most of what you already have, transforming everyday ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful dish.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your plant-based journey, this recipe makes whipping up a wholesome dinner a breeze. Say goodbye to food waste and hello to a customizable, satisfying meal that’s naturally dairy-free and egg-free. Plus, with the simple addition of tofu, it's packed with plant-based protein to keep you feeling energized. As one abillion user commented, "The mushrooms look delectable and plump with flavor!" – a testament to how versatile and appealing this dish can be!

Ingredients

250g of your preferred noodles (rice noodles, ramen, or wheat noodles work great!)
200g of tofu (firm or extra-firm recommended)
1 tsp cornstarch
A pinch of salt & black pepper
Your favorite vegetables (e.g., mushrooms, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach, snow peas)
2 heads of yellow onion (assuming it should be plain onion link as no specific yellow onion in dictionary)

Equipment You'll Need

Large skillet or wok
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Small bowl

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu: Press excess water from the tofu (if using firm or extra-firm). Cut it into bite-sized cubes. In a small bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This creates a crispy exterior.
Cook the Noodles: Prepare your chosen noodles according to package directions. Drain well and set aside. For stir-fries, it's best if they are slightly undercooked and then rinsed with cold water to prevent sticking.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of your preferred cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced yellow onion and cook until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Cook Tofu & Vegetables: Add the coated tofu to the pan and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides. This usually takes 5-7 minutes. Once the tofu is cooked, add your harder vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crunch. Add softer vegetables like mushrooms or spinach in the last 1-2 minutes.
Combine & Serve: Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the vegetables and tofu. Stir well to combine everything. If desired, drizzle with a little soy sauce or your favorite stir-fry sauce for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your pantry and preferences:

Protein Power-Ups: Besides tofu, consider adding cooked chickpeas, tempeh, seitan, or even a plant-based chicken alternative for varied textures and flavors.
Vegetable Medley: Experiment with different vegetables like broccoli florets, snap peas, bok choy, zucchini, or cabbage. Frozen vegetable mixes also work perfectly for a quick option.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using rice noodles (ensure they are 100% rice) and a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Sauce Sensations: Elevate your stir-fry with a homemade sauce. A simple mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, a touch of maple syrup or agave syrup, and a dash of sriracha creates a balanced flavor profile.

Tips & Hacks for the Perfect Stir-Fry

High Heat is Key: For truly "stir-fried" results, ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve that desired crisp-tender texture and prevents steaming.
Don't Crowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary, especially with tofu and vegetables. Overcrowding lowers the pan's temperature, leading to soggy results instead of perfectly cooked ones.
Prep Everything First (Mise en Place): Stir-frying is fast! Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you even turn on the heat. This makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
Crispy Tofu Secret: The cornstarch coating is crucial for getting that delightful crisp on your tofu. For even crispier tofu, consider baking or air-frying it before adding to the stir-fry.

Ready to transform your leftovers into a gourmet meal? Give this easy vegan stir-fry noodle recipe a try!

Vibrant Vegan Stir-Fried Noodles with Tofu and Vegetables