Crispy Tamarind-Spiced Tofu with Cilantro Noodles
A vibrant Southeast Asian-inspired dish combining crispy tofu, chewy rice noodles, and a tangy tamarind sauce infused with fresh herbs and chili. This Southeast Asian-inspired vegetarian recipe (gluten-free, high-protein), ready in about 25 minutes, pairs tofu, tamarind paste, soy sauce for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 340 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a quick salad. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz), pressed and cubed tofu
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1/2 cup, chopped cilantro
- 1, juiced lime
- 2, sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup, chopped peanuts
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Equipment for this recipe
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Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, 1 tbsp water, and chili flakes. Set aside.
- Step 2: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add vegetable oil and fry tofu cubes in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with 1 tbsp tamarind sauce mixture and 1 tbsp lime juice.
- Step 4: In the same wok, stir in remaining tamarind sauce, cilantro, green onions, and peanuts. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add tofu and noodles, tossing to combine. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges.








