Lemongrass Tofu Noodle Bowls

Prep time : 15 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Makes 2 servings

Lemongrass tofu noodle bowls are one of those meals that just hits the spot, you know? It’s fresh, flavorful, and just all around satisfying. I love whipping this up on a busy weeknight when I’m craving something light but still filling. The lemongrass brings this amazing zesty kick, and the tofu? Perfectly saucy. It's the kind of bowl you can’t stop going back for, and the best part is it’s good for you too. Just the perfect balance of yummy and nutritious.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• 125 g vermicelli rice noodles

• 1 purple cabbage

• 1 carrots

• 1 cucumber

• 1 green onion

• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts or cashews

• 400 g firm tofu

• fresh mint to garnish

FOR THE TOFU MARINADE

• 2 tbsp lemongrass paste

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced into a paste

• 1 tbsp garlic, minced into a paste

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

FOR THE SAUCE

• 2 tbsp lemongrass paste

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced into a paste

• 1 tsp garlic, minced into a paste

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp fish sauce

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat, add the noodles, and stir gently. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauces: In two separate small bowls, whisk together the ingredients for both the marinade and the sauce until fully combined. Set both aside.

3. Prep the Vegetables: Rinse your vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cabbage, carrots, and cucumber into thin strips or rounds (a mandoline works great for this if you have one).

4. Cook the Tofu: Pat the tofu dry with a clean dish towel to remove excess moisture. Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook for about 8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy. Pour in the marinade and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.

5. Assemble the Dish: In a serving bowl, add the cooked rice noodles. Layer with the sliced vegetables, tofu, green onion, and a sprinkle of peanuts. Drizzle the prepared sauce over everything, and garnish with fresh mint. Enjoy!