Crispy Peanut Tofu with Squash Noodles (Air Fryer)
In this recipe, tofu and shiitake mushrooms are air fried until crisp, drizzled with a simple sesame peanut sauce and served with squash noodles for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
In this recipe, tofu and shiitake mushrooms are air fried until crisp, drizzled with a simple sesame peanut sauce and served with squash noodles for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- olive oil spray
- lime wedges for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 medium zucchinis spiralized
- chopped cilantro for serving
- sesame seeds for serving
- sliced green onions for serving
- 6 tablespoons powdered peanut butter (i like pb2)
- 1 small clove garlic finely grated
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium tamari (or low-sodium soy sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon chinese cooking wine
- 1 (14 to 15 ounce) block extra firm tofu drained, pressed and diced into cubes
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium tamari (or low-sodium soy sauce)
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 medium yellow squash spiralized
- 6 ounces shiitake mushrooms stems removed and caps sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts for serving
- sambal oelek for serving
- Carbohydrate 15.2417175003914 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 13.0887550000002 g
- Fiber 4.94007506049065 g
- Protein 7.37381666666778 g
- Saturated Fat 1.87192625000004 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (278g)
- Sodium 28.3846666667053 mg
- Sugar 10.3016424399007 g
- Trans Fat 0.720797500000001 g
- Calories 187 calories
Step-by-step
- FOR THE SAUCE: In a small bowl, combine the powdered peanut butter with 3 tablespoons of water, mixing until combined.
- Next stir in the garlic, ginger, tamari, toasted sesame oil and Chinese cooking wine.
- When ready to serve, heat in a small sauce pan until warmed
- FOR THE TOFU AND SQUASH NOODLES: Cut the (pressed) tofu into ½-inch cubes.
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons tamari, 1 teaspoon sesame oil and cornstarch. Once combined, toss with sesame seeds.
- Then, preheat your air fryer to 390° or 400° depending on your model. Working in batches, add the tofu in a single layer and air fry for 8 to 10 minutes or until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate and repeat with the remaining tofu.
- Then add the sliced shiitake into the air fryer and cook for 4 minutes. You can reheat the tofu by adding it back into your air fryer and heating for a minute or two.
- FOR THE SQUASH NOODLES: Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium heat and spray with olive oil spray.
- Once hot, add the spiralized squash noodles and the garlic powder. Toss occasionally until tender yet still a bit firm. About 7 to 8 minutes.
- Finally serve the zoodles into bowls and add the crispy tofu, shiitake mushrooms and peanut sauce. Then top with crushed peanuts, sliced green onions, sesame seeds and minced cilantro. Don’t forget about the wedge of lime on the side.
My Easy Weeknight Delight: Crispy Peanut Tofu with Squash Noodles
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. But I've discovered a recipe that's become my weeknight savior: Crispy Peanut Tofu with Squash Noodles. This dish is not only incredibly flavorful and satisfying, but it's also surprisingly quick and easy to make, even on those evenings when I'm juggling work deadlines, homework help, and the endless to-do list.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The air fryer does most of the work, crisping the tofu to golden perfection in a fraction of the time it would take in a pan. The squash noodles, or zoodles as they're affectionately known, are a healthy and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, adding a delightful lightness to the dish. And the peanut sauce? Oh, the peanut sauce! It's a creamy, savory blend of peanut butter, ginger, garlic, and tamari that perfectly complements the crispy tofu and the subtle sweetness of the squash noodles. This sauce is what elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary – rich, nutty, and oh-so-satisfying.
Beyond the Weeknight: This isn't just a weeknight warrior; it's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit any occasion. I've served it to friends for casual get-togethers, and it's always a hit. It's also a great option for meal prepping – the tofu and sauce can be made ahead of time, making for a quick and easy lunch or dinner throughout the week. The leftovers actually taste even better the next day!
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how customizable it is. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots would all be delicious additions. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking; a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha adds a fiery kick. And don't be afraid to get creative with the toppings – toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime all enhance the flavors beautifully.
The Secret to Success: Pressing the tofu is key to achieving that satisfyingly crispy texture. I usually wrap my tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for at least 30 minutes before cutting and cooking. This removes excess moisture, allowing the tofu to crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. The cornstarch coating is another essential element, helping to create a lovely, crunchy exterior. And using good quality peanut butter makes all the difference in the flavor of the peanut sauce. Don't be shy with the ginger and garlic; they add wonderful depth and warmth to the sauce.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients, quick cooking methods, and a little bit of creativity. It’s a dish that embodies everything I value in cooking: healthy, delicious, and effortlessly elegant, perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even a quiet night in.
More than just a Recipe: This recipe is a reflection of my own journey in balancing work, family, and a desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, we can still find joy in creating delicious and nourishing food that fuels our bodies and nourishes our souls. It's a small act of self-care, a moment of peace in a busy world, and a delicious way to connect with loved ones over a shared meal.
So, if you're looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious weeknight meal, give this Crispy Peanut Tofu with Squash Noodles a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. It's a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire, just like it has in mine.
