Ingredients
For the Tofu
- 1 block extra firm tofu (preferably high protein tofu)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (Bachan’s Japanese BBQ sauce recommended)
- 1 clove garlic, grated
For the Broth
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste or roasted red chili paste
- 1 tablespoon white miso
- 1-2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon roasted chicken or vegetable base (or 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth)
- 1 (14-ounce) can full fat coconut milk
Other Ingredients
- 6 ounces uncooked ramen noodles (two 3-ounce packets, noodles only)
- Finely sliced cucumbers
- Cilantro and/or green onion, for garnish
- Chili crisp, for topping
Instructions
- Prep Tofu: Press the extra firm tofu with paper towels to remove excess water. Grate the tofu using a box grater with medium to large holes to create shreds.
- Crisp Tofu: Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the grated tofu shreds and sauté for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and lightly crisped, developing a chewy texture.
- Sauce Tofu: Add the teriyaki sauce and grated garlic to the skillet with tofu. Continue sautéing for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize onto the tofu. Add additional teriyaki sauce if desired. Remove tofu from pan and set aside in a bowl. Wipe out the pan for the broth.
- Make Ramen Broth: In the same pan, combine red curry paste, white miso, peanut butter, reduced sodium soy sauce, and brown sugar. Heat and stir until it forms a thick paste. Slowly whisk in the full fat coconut milk and the water mixed with Better Than Bouillon base (or broth) until fully combined. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the broth thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Cook Ramen: In a separate pot, boil the ramen noodles for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain the noodles and add them to the simmering broth. Let the noodles simmer in the broth for 1-2 minutes, stirring to ensure they are well-coated. Add more broth if a soupier consistency is preferred.
- Serve: Divide the noodles and broth into bowls. Top each bowl with a generous scoop of the caramelized tofu. Garnish with finely sliced cucumbers, cilantro or green onions, and a dollop of chili crisp for a spicy kick. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu well is key to achieving a crispy texture.
- Adjust the amount of peanut butter and chili crisp to suit your taste preferences.
- You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- For added protein, consider adding a soft boiled egg or other toppings.
- Be cautious with soy sauce to control sodium levels.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian