Chinese Broccolini with Tofu – A Flavorful Plant-Based Meal
If you're craving a delicious and nutritious Chinese-inspired dish, this Chinese Broccolini with Tofu will hit the spot. It’s packed with vibrant greens, protein-rich tofu, and chewy noodles, all coated in a flavorful soy-based sauce. Perfect for satisfying your Chinese food cravings with a healthier twist!
Why Make Chinese Broccolini with Tofu?
This dish combines the earthy flavors of Chinese broccoli, the heartiness of tofu, and the savory goodness of tamari and hoisin sauce. It’s an excellent way to get your daily dose of leafy greens and plant-based protein, making it both filling and nutritious.
Ingredients
8 Chinese broccoli stalks
4 cloves garlic, sliced
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
1/2 onion, sliced
2 tsp chili flakes
2 tbsp tamari
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 inch fresh ginger, grated (or 2 tsp dried ginger)
2 cups buckwheat or whole wheat noodles
4 cups veggie broth
1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed, drained, and cubed
Directions
Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and trim the dried ends off the Chinese broccoli. Sauté briefly in a small amount of broth for 1-3 minutes until slightly softened, then shock in ice water.
Cook the Noodles: In a pot, cook the noodles in veggie broth until al dente. Save the broth, remove the noodles, and set aside.
Reduce the Broth: Continue cooking the broth to reduce its volume for a more concentrated flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: In a separate pan, sauté the onions and garlic in sesame oil over medium-high heat until golden brown and crispy.
Add Tofu & Broccoli: Add the cubed tofu, Chinese broccoli, ginger, and chili flakes to the pan. Sauté until the greens are fully wilted. Add 1/4 cup veggie broth to form a light sauce.
Combine with Noodles: Mix the noodles with tamari and a small amount of veggie broth. Toss everything together.
Serve: Serve the noodles alongside the Chinese broccoli-tofu mixture. Add pickled vegetables for extra crunch and contrasting flavor.
Customizing Your Chinese Broccolini with Tofu
Add more spice: Increase the chili flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Try different noodles: Use rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option.
Add more veggies: Include bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
Enjoy this savory and satisfying Chinese Broccolini with Tofu for a complete, flavorful, and plant-based meal!