Sesame Ginger Carrot Noodles with Crispy Tofu and Fresh Cilantro

Ingredients

• •4 medium carrots, peeled and spiralized
• •1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• •2 tablespoons sesame oil
• •2 tablespoons soy sauce
• •1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• •1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• •2 cloves garlic, minced
• •1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• •1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• •1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• •1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
• •1 tablespoon cornstarch or tapioca starch (for tofu)
• •2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for tofu)

Instructions

1. 1

   Step 1: Prepare the tofu by pressing it to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, cut it into small cubes and toss with cornstarch or tapioca starch to ensure crispiness when cooking.

2. 2

   Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. 3

   Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, and red pepper flakes (if using) to create the sesame-ginger sauce.

4. 4

   Step 4: Peel and spiralize the carrots into noodle-like ribbons. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or slice the carrots into thin strips using a knife.

5. 5

   Step 5: In the same skillet used for the tofu, add the carrot noodles and pour in the sesame-ginger sauce. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until the carrots are slightly softened but still retain a bit of crunch.

6. 6

   Step 6: Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet and toss everything together to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. 7

   Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with fresh cilantro, toasted sesame seeds (if using), and an optional squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately and enjoy!