Ingredients
-
1 (14 ounce) package extra-firm tofu, drained
-
2 tablespoons neutral oil, such as canola or avocado, divided
-
¼ cup creamy natural peanut butter
-
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
-
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
-
½ tablespoon lime zest
-
2 tablespoons lime juice
-
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
-
2 tablespoons honey
-
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
-
4 ounces Chinese noodles, such as Kame
-
2 cups shredded carrots
-
1 cup shredded red or green cabbage
-
½ cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
-
½ cup coarsely chopped fresh mint
-
½ cup unsalted roasted peanuts, chopped
-
4 scallions, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
-
Lime wedges for serving
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut tofu crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Place in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with 3 layers of paper towels. Cover with another 2 to 3 layers of paper towels. Gently press on the tofu to remove excess liquid. Discard the paper towels. Cut the tofu into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon canola oil in a large cast-iron or other heavy ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until crispy, 10 to 15 minutes.
- Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, lime zest, lime juice, sesame oil, honey, and crushed red pepper, if using, in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Cook noodles in boiling water according to package directions, about 3 minutes. Drain.
- When the tofu is ready, transfer it to a plate and keep warm. Carefully set the hot skillet over medium-high heat. (Be mindful of the hot handle!) Heat 1/2 tablespoon canola oil to shimmering; add the cooked noodles, pressing them into a thin layer in the bottom of the pan. Cook until the underside is browned and crispy in spots, 3 to 5 minutes. Carefully flip the noodles and add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon oil, drizzling it around the edge of the pan to allow it to stream down; cook until the underside is browned and crispy in spots, 3 to 5 minutes. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Transfer the cooked noodles to a serving dish and top with carrots, cabbage, cilantro, mint and the tofu. Drizzle with the peanut sauce. Sprinkle with peanuts and scallions. Serve with lime wedges.
