Are you a vegan looking for some delicious and easy meal ideas? Look no further! Today, we’re sharing 18 mouth-watering quick tofu noodle recipes that are perfect for a busy night in or a quick lunch on-the-go. From spicy stir-fries to creamy curries, these tasty dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting out, these recipes offer a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients and prep time.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, featuring dishes inspired by Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese cuisines. From classic pad thai to hearty pho, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 18 quick tofu noodle recipes.
Spicy Garlic Peanut Tofu Noodles
This spicy and savory noodle dish is a flavorful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors. Crunchy peanuts, pungent garlic, and creamy peanut butter come together to create a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup noodles (such as rice noodles or soba)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Add cooked noodles and tofu to the pan. Toss until well coated with the spicy garlic peanut sauce.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Ginger Stir-Fried Tofu Noodles
This quick and flavorful recipe combines the savory taste of sesame oil with the spicy kick of ginger, served over a bed of tender noodles and crunchy tofu. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as soba or rice noodles)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and chopped scallions to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until combined.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir-fry everything together for a final minute.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Tofu Ramen Bowl
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of ramen noodles with the tangy sweetness of a sweet and sour sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bean sprouts, bok choy, and carrots)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in sweet and sour sauce and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked noodles and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Tofu Noodle Soup
Warm up with this creamy and comforting soup that combines the flavors of coconut milk, curry powder, and tender tofu, all wrapped up in a springy noodle package. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz rice noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the cubed tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the soup hot, garnished with noodles and any desired toppings (such as sliced bell peppers or chopped cilantro).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Gochujang Tofu Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this simple yet addictive noodle dish, combining crispy tofu and spicy gochujang sauce with chewy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Korean-style noodles (such as naengmyeon or ramyeon)
– 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Cook onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add gochujang paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the pan. Stir until well combined.
5. Add cooked noodles and tofu back into the pan. Toss everything together until coated with the spicy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Miso Tahini Tofu Udon Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the creamy richness of tahini with the savory umami of miso, all wrapped up in a hearty udon noodle stir-fry. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, miso paste, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, combining with the tofu.
5. Pour in the tahini-miso mixture and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is well combined and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Tofu Pad Thai
A flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic Thai dish, this Crispy Tofu Pad Thai recipe combines crispy pan-fried tofu with a tangy tamarind sauce and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Rice noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pan-fry the tofu until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil, onion, and garlic to the pan. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, palm sugar, and ginger. Pour into the pan and stir to combine.
6. Return tofu to the pan and stir-fry everything together for 1 minute.
7. Serve over rice noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Tofu Pho with Rice Noodles
This Vietnamese-inspired pho recipe combines the creamy flavor of lemongrass-infused tofu with fragrant rice noodles and a rich, aromatic broth. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small pieces
– 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 8 oz of rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
2. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, sauté tofu with bruised lemongrass until golden brown.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. To assemble, place cooked noodles into bowls, add tofu mixture, and ladle hot broth over the top. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cashew Lime Tofu Zoodles
This recipe combines the creaminess of cashews with the zesty flavor of lime, all wrapped up in a delicious and healthy package. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz zucchini noodles (zoodles)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add tofu cubes to the blender and blend until coated with the cashew mixture.
4. Cook zoodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Toss cooked zoodles with the tofu-cashew mixture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Tofu Soba Noodles
Experience the harmonious blend of Japanese flavors with this simple and delicious recipe. Pan-seared tofu, savory teriyaki sauce, and nutty soba noodles come together in a dish that’s both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 8 oz of soba noodles
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add grated ginger and stir well.
3. Pan-sear tofu pieces until golden brown on both sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add teriyaki sauce to the pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked soba noodles, pan-seared tofu, and teriyaki sauce in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Szechuan Chili Oil Tofu Noodles
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with the comfort of a warm noodle dish. Crunchy tofu, savory noodles, and a spicy kick from chili oil come together in this quick and easy stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tablespoon chili oil (store-bought or homemade)
– 8 oz noodles (such as soba or rice noodles)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add garlic, Szechuan peppercorns, and chili oil. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Add cooked noodles to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Return tofu to the pan and toss with noodles.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Tofu Rice Noodles
This flavorful dish combines the creamy richness of tofu with the bright, aromatic flavors of Thai basil and a satisfying serving of rice noodles. A perfect blend of East meets West, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Thai basil, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using); stir to combine.
5. Add cooked noodles and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ginger Scallion Tofu Lo Mein
This classic Chinese dish gets a protein-packed twist with the addition of crispy tofu and a flavorful sauce made with fresh ginger and scallions. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cups lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
3. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add garlic, ginger, and scallions. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce mixture, and tofu to the skillet. Stir-fry until combined and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Pepper Tofu and Egg Noodles
This recipe combines the savory flavors of black pepper-infused tofu with the comforting warmth of egg noodles, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The spicy kick from the black pepper adds depth to this simple yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 cup egg noodles
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and black pepper; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the tofu mixture and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Sriracha Glazed Tofu Noodles
Elevate your noodles game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup, the heat of sriracha, and the tender texture of pan-seared tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 8 oz noodles (such as rice noodles or soba)
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, sriracha sauce, and soy sauce.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Brush the glaze all over the tofu, then transfer to a serving plate with noodles.
5. Garnish with green onion and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Tofu Laksa with Vermicelli
Savor the rich flavors of Southeast Asia with this comforting and nourishing vegan take on traditional laksa. This recipe combines tender tofu, aromatic spices, and springy vermicelli noodles in a creamy coconut broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 8 ounces vermicelli noodles
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat coconut oil over medium-high. Add tofu, mushrooms, garlic, and onion; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in soy sauce, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let flavors meld while noodles finish cooking.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Tofu Linguine
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, butter, and tender tofu. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
4. Stir in remaining 2 tbsp of butter and olive oil. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked linguine with the garlic-butter-tofu mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Tofu Soba Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of BBQ tofu, savory soba noodles, and crunchy vegetables, making it a perfect meal for a warm day. With its balanced mix of textures and tastes, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, cucumber)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and olive oil. Add tofu cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Grill or bake the marinated tofu until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, grilled tofu, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Vegan cooking just got a whole lot easier! This article presents 18 quick and delicious tofu noodle recipes that are perfect for a weeknight meal. From spicy garlic peanut noodles to sweet and sour ramen bowls, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at coconut curry noodle soup, Korean gochujang noodles, or crispy pad thai – the options are endless! These easy-to-make recipes use tofu as the main protein source, making them a great option for those following a vegan diet. Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these tasty and quick tofu noodle dishes!
