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Tofu Chow Mein Recipe

Tofu Chow Mein is a delicious, savory dish filled with crispy tofu, stir-fried vegetables, and noodles in a flavorful soy-based sauce. The tofu is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the noodles soak up all the tasty sauce and complement the vegetables perfectly. This easy and customizable recipe makes for a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on busy weeknights or as a weekend treat!
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Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Pot (for boiling noodles)

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chow Mein:
  • 1 block firm tofu pressed and cubed
  • 8 oz chow mein noodles or any thin noodles
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 carrot julienned
  • 1 bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup snap peas or green beans
  • 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
  • For the Chow Mein Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for spice

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Tofu:
  • Press the tofu to remove excess moisture (using a tofu press or by wrapping the tofu block in a kitchen towel and placing something heavy on top for 15-20 minutes).
  • Cut the tofu into small cubes.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add the tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
  • Prepare the Chow Mein Sauce:
  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup (or honey), garlic powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Stir until everything is well-combined.
  • Cook the Noodles:
  • In a separate pot, cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions (usually boiling for 3-4 minutes).
  • Drain the noodles and set them aside.
  • Stir Fry the Vegetables:
  • In the same skillet or wok, add a bit more oil if necessary and heat over medium-high heat.
  • Add the broccoli, carrot, bell pepper, and snap peas (or green beans).
  • Stir fry for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  • Combine the Tofu, Noodles, and Sauce:
  • Add the cooked noodles and crispy tofu to the skillet with the vegetables.
  • Pour the chow mein sauce over everything and toss gently to combine, ensuring the noodles and tofu are coated in the sauce.
  • Stir fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce and everything to heat through.
  • Serve:
  • Remove the chow mein from heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
  • Serve hot as a main dish or a side dish.