Spicy Garlic Noodles with Tofu & Veggies - Pair with 2 Late by Lola Violet

 

Spicy Garlic Noodles with Tofu & Veggies

This meal reflects a desire for something satisfying and flavorful. The kick of the spice can symbolize the lingering sting of the past, while the overall comfort of noodles (which Lola likes) provides self-soothing. It's a dish you might make to feel good.

Lola will absolutely love these Spicy Garlic Noodles, packed with her favorite pasta, a generous amount of garlic, a kick of sriracha, and delicious vegetables like cabbage and bell peppers. This quick and flavorful dish is made without any jalapeños, mushrooms, or other ingredients Lola dislikes.

Yields: 2 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Equipment:

  • Large pot

  • Large skillet or wok

  • Colander

  • Knife

  • Cutting board

  • Measuring cups

  • Liquid measuring cup

  • Measuring spoons

  • Whisk

  • Spatula or tongs

  • Small bowl

  • Serving bowls

Ingredients:

For the Noodles & Toppings:

  • 8 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or ramen noodles – ensure vegetarian)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or neutral cooking oil

  • 8 ounces firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed or crumbled (optional, for protein)

  • 1 1/2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced or shredded (Lola likes cabbage)

  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (Lola likes peppers)

  • 2 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced (for garnish)

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

  • 1/2 cup fresh watercress (optional, for garnish, Lola likes watercress)

For the Spicy Garlic Sauce:

  • 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (Lola likes garlic!)

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (Lola likes sriracha!), adjust to desired heat

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or reserved pasta water

Instructions:

Preparing Noodles & Ingredients:

Step 1.) Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

Step 2.) Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water using a liquid measuring cup. Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly using a colander. Set aside.

Step 3.) While the pasta cooks, use a knife and cutting board to mince the garlic. Thinly slice the green cabbage and red bell pepper. Thinly slice the green onions for garnish.

Step 4.) If using tofu, press it. Then, using a knife and cutting board, cut it into 1/2-inch cubes or crumble it.

Making the Sauce & Cooking Veggies:

Step 5.) In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, and optional red pepper flakes with a whisk. Stir in the 1/4 cup of vegetable broth or reserved pasta water. Set aside.

Step 6.) Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. If using tofu, add the cubed or crumbled tofu and cook, stirring with a spatula, for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside in a small bowl.

Step 7.) Add the thinly sliced cabbage and red bell pepper to the same skillet. Cook, stirring with a spatula, for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combining & Serving:

Step 8.) Add the cooked pasta and the cooked tofu (if using) back to the skillet with the vegetables.

Step 9.) Pour the prepared spicy garlic sauce over the noodles and vegetables. Toss everything together vigorously with tongs or a spatula until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 10.) Taste the noodles using a fork or spoon and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 11.) Divide the Spicy Garlic Noodles between two serving bowls.

Step 12.) Garnish generously with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. If desired, add a few sprigs of fresh watercress. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success:

  • Garlic Lover: Don't be shy with the garlic! It's a key flavor in this dish.

  • Noodle Choice: While spaghetti works well, feel free to use other pasta shapes Lola enjoys.

  • Crispy Tofu: Ensure your tofu is well-pressed before cooking to get the best crispy texture.

  • Heat Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes to Lola's desired level of spiciness.

  • This dish is best served fresh!

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