Creamy Miso Udon with Crispy Tofu and Sesame Broccoli is a modern take on a Japanese classic. This sounds like a fancy dish, but is so easy to make, with the main ingredient, miso paste, is a fermented soybean paste full of flavour and good bacteria that is great for your gut health. This dish also incorporates crispy tofu, which is a very good source of protein and low in calories, the broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
Creamy Miso Udon Tips
- Miso Paste: Use white or yellow miso paste for a milder flavour. If you prefer a stronger, more savoury taste, try red miso. You can purchase this from most supermarkets or your favourite Asian grocer.
- Tofu: Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (like a cast-iron pan or pot) on top for at least 15-30 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture, making the tofu crispier when cooked.
- Udon Noodles: Cook the udon noodles according to package directions for the perfect chewy texture.
- Alternative Noodles: If you can’t find udon noodles, you can substitute them with soba noodles, rice noodles, or even spaghetti.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the sauce consistency by adding more vegetable broth or water if it’s too thick. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.
- Broccoli: Don’t overcook the broccoli. It should be tender-crisp and still retain a vibrant green colour.
- Steaming Option: If you prefer a less charred taste, steam the broccoli for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp before adding it to the pan.
- Blanching: Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer it to an ice bath to retain its vibrant green colour before stir-frying.
- High Heat Stir-Fry: For a quick and efficient stir-fry, use high heat and keep the ingredients moving in the pan to ensure even cooking and avoid burning.
- Layered Cooking: Cook the tofu first and set it aside. Then cook the broccoli, and finally combine everything with the noodles and sauce. This method ensures that each component is cooked perfectly.
- Serving: Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced spring onions, or a drizzle of chilli oil for extra flavour and visual appeal.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for a tasty lunch or dinner the next day.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, or snow peas. You can also add a protein like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Ingredients
- 200g dried udon noodles
- 1 block (approx. 400g) firm tofu, pressed and cut into 2cm cubes
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp white or yellow miso paste
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp grated fresh ginger
- Juice of ½ lime
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or water)
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sliced spring onions, for garnish
Directions
- Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil. Add the udon noodles and cook according to packet instructions until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
- In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- In the same pan, add the sesame oil and remaining olive oil. Stir-fry the broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp and slightly charred.
- While the broccoli cooks, whisk together the miso paste, tahini, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and vegetable broth in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Return the udon noodles and crispy tofu to the pan with the broccoli. Pour the miso sauce over everything and toss to coat.
- Cook for another minute or two over a low heat until heated through.
- Divide the udon noodles and toppings between two bowls. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced spring onions.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if desired. Enjoy your Miso Udon with Crispy Tofu and Sesame Broccoli!
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For more information on buying the right miso paste for you, we recommend you read this review: Miso paste
