Spicy Sesame Zoodles with Crispy Tofu Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a spicy sesame peanut sauce, topped with crispy golden tofu. This quick and healthy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, combining creamy, spicy, and savory elements with a satisfying crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/3 cup sesame oil
- 1/3 cup light low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons chili paste (like sambal oelek)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 knob of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
Tofu and Zoodles
- 12 ounces extra firm tofu
- 4–6 zucchini
- Sesame seeds and scallions for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Chili Sesame Sauce: Combine the peanut butter, sesame oil, light low sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger ingredients in a jar and shake well, or blend them in a food processor until smooth. For best flavor, refrigerate the sauce if serving cold.
- Cook the Tofu: Press excess moisture from the extra firm tofu and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Heat a small amount of oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the tofu pieces and stir fry until they turn golden brown on all sides.
- Simmer with Sauce: Pour about 1/2 cup of the prepared chili sesame sauce into the pan with the tofu. Let it simmer while gently flipping the tofu pieces and scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, evaporates slightly, and the tofu surfaces become nicely browned and caramelized.
- Prepare the Zoodles: Spiralize the zucchini into noodles and divide into servings. Toss each serving with about 1/4 cup of the chili sesame sauce to coat well.
- Assemble and Serve: Top the dressed zucchini noodles with the crispy tofu pieces. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for extra flavor and texture. Serve immediately for the best taste and crunch.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu thoroughly ensures it crisps up nicely and absorbs the sauce better.
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili paste or omit it altogether.
- You can substitute zucchini noodles with other spiralized vegetables like carrots or cucumber for variation.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the sesame seeds lightly before sprinkling on top.
- This dish is best eaten fresh to maintain the crispness of the zucchini noodles and tofu.