Maybe you’ve been eating a lot of ramen noodles while under quarantine. Ramen is fast, easy, and inexpensive. But did you know that you can take those simple noodles to a whole ‘nother level of flavor and texture? Check out this silken noodles recipe. It’s vegetarian, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly. Plus, it packs a protein punch to enhance plant-based diets.
Ramen – There’s a Lot More to It
In the U.S., ramen typically consists of a square of noodles, water, and a very salty beef, chicken, or shrimp flavor packet.
Think of that as the “fast food” version of ramen. In Japan, however, these noodles are taken to a whole ‘nother level with rich broths and crisp vegetables. You can do the same at home, using whatever you’ve got in your quarantine pantry.
This silken noodles recipe may require a trip to the grocery, but the flavor and texture is so worth it.
Tofu – It Makes It Silky
Outside of the plant-based dieters, I’ve noticed that many Americans are skeptical of tofu. They see it as flavorless, strangely squishy, and possibly packed with too much plant estrogen.
But in many countries, tofu is a staple. And when prepared properly, tofu can add new dimensions of texture to a familiar dish, as it does for this one.
One thing is certain, tofu is rather flavorless – but that’s okay, because that allows it to take on the flavors of garlic and ginger.
Silken Noodles Recipe
Bold spices meet rich noddles in this creamy ramen recipe. I was first introduced to silken noodles through The Isol(Asian) Cookbook.
Servings: 2
Prep time: 10 to 15 minutes
Silken Noodles Recipe Ingredients
2 packages ramen noodles
1/2 container of tofu
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp sugar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp water
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
1 tbsp grated fresh garlic
1 tbsp crushed red pepper
1 chive or green onion, chopped
1 tbsp dried cilantro or fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp flax or sesame seeds
Preparation
- Prepare the noodles according to package instructions. Discard the flavor packet. Drain.
- Combine tofu, salt, and sugar in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. If the tofu is too dry to create a smooth, creamy sauce, add water 1 tbsp at a time.
- Prepare the sauce. Combine the remaining ingredients and stir.
- Return noodles, tofu sauce, and spicy sauce to the warm saucepan. Combine and serve.
Tip: Depending on your taste, you may find the amount of sauce described here overwhelming. The first time you make silken noodles, start with half the spicy sauce, then add more to taste.
Hungry for adventure? Check out all of our other international recipes!
One part Lois Lane, one part Jimmy Olsen, one part Johnboy Walton, and a bit of that Clark Kent secret identity thing thrown in for good measure.
Cara Siera is a freelance writer and photographer with a passion for travel and exotic cuisine. Join Cara, her husband Marc, and one very spoiled German Shepherd on their next great adventure.