Tamarind Tofu Stir-Fry with Soba Noodles

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Tamarind Tofu Stir-Fry with Soba Noodles.

1. Step 1

   Start by breaking open the tamarind pods and scooping the flesh into a large bowl.

2. Step 2

   Pour hot water over the tamarind and let it soak for about an hour to soften.

3. Step 3

   Once softened, use the back of a spoon to push the tamarind through a sieve, extracting the pulp while discarding the seeds and tough fibers.

4. Step 4

   Measure out half a cup of the tamarind pulp and set it aside.

5. Step 5

   Next, slice the tofu crosswise into six rectangles, then halve each rectangle to create twelve squares.

6. Step 6

   Cut these squares diagonally to form twenty-four triangles.

7. Step 7

   Layer the tofu triangles on paper towels and press gently to remove excess liquid, allowing them to rest for about thirty minutes.

8. Step 8

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

9. Step 9

   Toss the tofu triangles in two tablespoons of peanut oil, then arrange them on the baking sheet.

10. Step 10

    Bake until they turn golden brown, which should take about forty-five to sixty minutes.

11. Step 11

    While the tofu bakes, heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add peanuts and sesame seeds.

12. Step 12

    Toast them for about a minute until fragrant, then transfer to a bowl.

13. Step 13

    In the same skillet, heat one and a half teaspoons of peanut oil over medium-high heat.

14. Step 14

    Add cucumber, carrots, green onions, and red bell pepper, sautéing for about two minutes until they are crisp-tender.

15. Step 15

    Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a bowl.

16. Step 16

    In the skillet, heat the remaining one and a half teaspoons of peanut oil over medium heat.

17. Step 17

    Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about thirty seconds.

18. Step 18

    Stir in the tamarind pulp, orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, sugar, and red pepper flakes.

19. Step 19

    Let the sauce simmer for about three minutes until well combined.

20. Step 20

    Gently fold the baked tofu triangles, toasted peanuts, and sesame seeds into the sauce, then add the sautéed vegetables.

21. Step 21

    Meanwhile, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.

22. Step 22

    Add both light and dark soba noodles, cooking until tender, which should take about three minutes.

23. Step 23

    Drain the noodles and transfer them to a large bowl.

24. Step 24

    Top the noodles with the flavorful tofu and vegetable mixture, creating a vibrant and delicious dish that’s sure to impress.

25. Step 25

    Enjoy the delightful blend of textures and flavors in every bite!.