Ingredients
Tofu:
- 1 (14-ounce) package extra firm tofu
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Drizzle of oil
- Drizzle of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
Coconut Curry Ramen:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 8 oz. shiitake mushrooms (about 2-3 cups sliced)
- 2 bok choy heads, chopped (about 2–3 cups)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 6–8 oz. ramen noodles (preferably fresh or dried ramen noodles)
- 1 (14-ounce) can coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Squeeze of lime juice
Optional Finishing Touches:
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sambal oelek chili paste
- 1 stalk green onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gently press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes. Toss the cubes in a bowl with cornstarch to coat evenly. Drizzle lightly with oil and soy sauce, ensuring each piece is well seasoned. Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes until golden and crispy. Once baked, toss the tofu cubes with hoisin sauce for added flavor.
- Chop the Vegetables: While the tofu is baking, chop the shiitake mushrooms and bok choy into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves and fresh ginger.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large, deep pot over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped bok choy, sautéing them for 3-5 minutes until they become soft. Then add the minced garlic, ginger, and curry powder, continuing to sauté for another 3-5 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and well combined.
- Cook the Noodles and Simmer the Broth: Pour in the 6 cups of vegetable broth and bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Add the ramen noodles and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir in the coconut milk and season the broth with 1 teaspoon of salt and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
- Assemble and Serve: Ladle the coconut curry ramen into bowls. Top each serving with the crispy golden baked tofu cubes. If desired, finish with a drizzle of sesame oil, a spoonful of sambal oelek chili paste for heat, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Grab your chopsticks and enjoy this hearty, flavorful vegan ramen!
Notes
- For tofu pressing, use a tofu press or wrap tofu in a clean kitchen towel and gently place a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes.
- If you cannot find fresh ramen noodles, dried ramen noodles work well.
- Adding sambal oelek chili paste is optional for those who prefer a spicy kick.
- Bok choy can be substituted with other greens like spinach or napa cabbage if preferred.
- Adjust salt and lime juice to taste to balance the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan Asian Fusion
- Diet: Vegan