Chili-Lime Soba with Crispy Ginger Tofu

A vibrant and tangy dish combining the nuttiness of soba noodles with crispy, ginger-infused tofu and a refreshing lime kick.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 25 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by cooking the soba noodles in boiling water according to the package instructions, usually for about 7-8 minutes, until they are tender but not mushy. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking and remove excess starch. Set aside after tossing with a bit of lime juice to prevent sticking.
2. 2.
   While the noodles cook, prepare the tofu. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce to the cubed tofu, ensuring even coating. Sauté the tofu without disturbing for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown before flipping to ensure even crispiness. Stir in the grated ginger and allow its aroma to infuse the tofu, stirring until all sides are crispy.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, mix the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce with lime juice and zest. This will create a tangy lime dressing. Adjust to taste by adding more lime juice if you prefer a zestier kick or more soy sauce for a saltier flavor.
4. 4.
   Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the tofu. Pour the lime-soy dressing over the mixture and toss well to distribute the flavors evenly. Keep the heat on low to avoid drying out the noodles. The noodles should glisten with the sauce and the tofu should maintain its crisp texture.
5. 5.
   Serve immediately, garnished with additional lime zest or wedges for a fresh pop of flavor. For extra heat, sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. If the tofu becomes too soft, briefly return it to the skillet on high heat to regain crispiness.