Asian-Style Stir-Fried Noodles with Crispy Tofu

Step 1

Fill a medium pot with about 4 cups of water.

Step 2

Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to high.

Step 3

Wait until the water starts boiling rapidly.

Step 4

Add the noodles to the boiling water.

Step 5

Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes.

Step 6

Stir once so the noodles do not stick together.

Step 7

When the noodles are tender, pour them into a strainer and drain the water.

Step 8

Rinse the noodles briefly with warm water to stop the cooking.

Step 9

Set the noodles aside.

Step 10

Remove the tofu from its package.

Step 11

Place the tofu on a plate and gently press it with a paper towel to remove excess water.

Step 12

Cut the tofu into small cubes about 1 inch wide.

Step 13

Place a large skillet or wok on the stove.

Step 14

Turn the stove to medium-high heat.

Step 15

Add 1 tablespoon oil to the pan.

Step 16

Carefully add the tofu cubes to the pan.

Step 17

Cook the tofu for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Step 18

Continue cooking until the tofu becomes golden brown on several sides.

Step 19

Drizzle 1 tablespoon soy sauce over the tofu and stir gently.

Step 20

Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.

Step 21

Using the same pan, keep the stove on medium-high heat.

Step 22

Add the sliced bell pepper and carrots to the pan.

Step 23

Stir and cook the vegetables for 2–3 minutes.

Step 24

Add the bean sprouts and cook for another 1 minute.

Step 25

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.

Step 26

Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves.

Step 27

Add the cooked noodles into the pan with the vegetables.

Step 28

Return the cooked tofu to the pan.

Step 29

Pour the sauce over the noodles.

Step 30

Use tongs or a spoon to toss everything together.

Step 31

Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently so the noodles absorb the sauce.

Step 32

Turn the stove off.

Step 33

Sprinkle the chopped green onions, cilantro, and peanuts over the noodles.

Step 34

Squeeze a little fresh lime juice over the top for brightness.

Step 35

Toss once more gently.

Step 36

Divide the noodles into bowls.

Step 37

Add extra lime wedges or peanuts if desired.

Step 38

Serve warm.