Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles | Easy Vegan Dinner Bowl Ready in 20 Minutes

About This Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles 

If you love bold, nutty, and slightly spicy Asian flavors, this spicy tofu peanut noodles recipe will become your new favorite weeknight dinner! These tofu peanut butter noodles combine chewy noodles, crispy tofu, and a creamy peanut sauce that’s both rich and healthy.

Unlike takeout versions, this homemade vegan spicy tofu noodles dish is made with fresh ingredients, minimal oil, and no preservatives perfect for a high-protein tofu noodle bowl that’s light yet satisfying. The best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes using simple pantry staples like peanut butter, soy sauce, chili flakes, and sesame oil.
  

Whether you’re looking for healthy tofu peanut noodles for lunch or a quick dinner after work, this recipe offers the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and crunch. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables think carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli to make it even more colorful and nutritious.

These Asian spicy peanut tofu noodles are not only full of protein and flavor but also dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free-friendly, depending on the noodles you choose. They make a comforting yet refreshing bowl of noodles that tastes like it’s straight out of your favorite Asian café but made easily at home.

So, if you’ve ever wondered how to make tofu noodles with peanut sauce that are creamy, spicy, and perfectly balanced, this recipe is your go-to. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this spicy peanut noodle bowl with tofu delicious, wholesome, and ready before you know it.

What Make This Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles is Special

This Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles recipe is not just another noodle dish it’s a complete culinary experience. Every component is carefully balanced to create a dish that’s flavorful, wholesome, and satisfying. The tofu provides a soft yet slightly crisp protein base, while the creamy peanut sauce delivers a nutty, slightly sweet, and spicy punch that coats every strand of noodle perfectly.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, or spinach making it as colorful and nutritious as you like. It works equally well as a hot, comforting dinner or a chilled noodle bowl for a refreshing lunch.

This dish is also vegan, high-protein, and health-conscious. The combination of tofu and peanut butter provides an excellent plant-based protein boost, while whole or rice noodles keep it light and filling without heavy dairy or eggs. If you’re looking for a healthy meal prep option that doesn’t compromise on taste, this is it!

Inspired by the simple yet bold cooking philosophy of Chef Ranveer Brar, this recipe shows that even everyday ingredients can transform into a restaurant-style meal at home. The balance of textures tender tofu, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles makes it a dish people come back for again and again.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned foodie, this Spicy Peanut Noodle Bowl with Tofu is approachable, easy to prepare, and delivers a punch of flavors that are both authentic and comforting. It’s a dish that’s not just eaten it’s experienced, making it truly special for your home kitchen.

Ingredients List For Tofu Peanut Noodles

For the Tofu & Noodles:

Firm tofu – 200g (7 oz)
Cut into small cubes. Firm tofu holds its shape while pan-frying and gives a nice crispy exterior. Substitute: Paneer or Tempeh can be used if you prefer a different texture or flavor.

Rice noodles / Soba noodles – 150g (5 oz)
Cook according to package instructions until just tender. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy noodles. Substitute: Whole wheat noodles, glass noodles, or gluten-free noodles work well too.

Vegetables – 1 cup each, chopped
Choose from broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach. Adds color, crunch, and nutrition to the noodle bowl.

For the Peanut Sauce:

Peanut butter – 3 tbsp
Gives creamy, nutty flavor to coat the noodles perfectly. Substitute: Almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty profile.

Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
Provides umami and saltiness. Substitute: Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free version.

Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Adds aromatic depth and a subtle spicy note.

Chili flakes or Sriracha – 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
For the signature spiciness. Adjust according to your heat preference.

Lime juice – 1 tbsp
Adds freshness and balances the richness of peanut butter.

Maple syrup or honey – 1 tsp
Balances flavors with a hint of sweetness. For vegan version, use maple syrup.

Sesame oil – 1 tsp
Adds a nutty aroma and authentic Asian flavor.

Water – 3–4 tbsp (or as needed)
To thin the peanut sauce to desired consistency for coating noodles.

Optional Toppings:

• Crushed peanuts for crunch
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Spring onions for freshness
• Fresh cilantro for extra flavor

Notes:

• Adjust vegetables according to season or preference.
• For a protein boost, add edamame or cooked chickpeas.
• Sauce consistency can be made thicker for a creamy bowl or thinner for a lighter coating.

Essential Equipment Needed For Recipe 

• Large skillet or non-stick pan – For frying tofu and stir-frying noodles.
• Medium saucepan – To cook noodles if not cooking directly in the pan.
• Mixing bowl – For preparing peanut sauce.
• Measuring spoons & cups – To ensure correct quantities of sauce ingredients.
• Spatula or tongs – For tossing noodles and vegetables evenly.
• Knife & chopping board – To chop tofu and vegetables.
• Optional: Whisk – To make peanut sauce smooth and lump-free.

How To Make Perfect Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles

Prep the Tofu
Drain firm tofu and pat it dry thoroughly using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Removing excess moisture is key to getting a crispy exterior. Cut the tofu into small, evenly sized cubes (about 1-inch) so they cook uniformly. Optionally, you can lightly toss the tofu cubes in a pinch of salt and cornstarch for extra crispiness.

Pan-Fry the Tofu
Heat 1 tsp oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes carefully, keeping space between them to avoid steaming. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Turn gently with a spatula to prevent breaking. Once done, remove the tofu and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of water to boil and add the noodles (rice, soba, or preferred type). Cook according to the package instructions until just tender slightly al dente for best texture. Avoid overcooking as noodles can become mushy. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and remove extra starch. Toss lightly with a few drops of sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Make the Peanut Sauce
In a small bowl, combine 3 tbsp peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1–2 tsp chili flakes or Sriracha, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp maple syrup or honey, and 1 tsp sesame oil. Whisk until smooth. Add 3–4 tbsp water gradually to reach a pourable, creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning more lime for tang, more chili for heat, or more soy sauce for saltiness.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet used for tofu, add a little oil if needed. Add chopped vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp, retaining a nice crunch and bright color. Optional: Add a pinch of salt and a dash of chili for extra flavor.

Combine Noodles, Tofu, and Sauce
Add the drained noodles to the skillet with vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce evenly over the noodles and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Add the pan-fried tofu cubes and fold in carefully so they remain intact. Make sure every noodle and vegetable is coated with the creamy peanut sauce for maximum flavor.

Garnish and Serve
Transfer the noodles to a serving bowl. Garnish with crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, chopped spring onions, or fresh cilantro. Serve hot for a comforting meal, or slightly chilled for a refreshing cold noodle variation.

Optional Tips for Perfection

• Drizzle a few extra drops of sesame oil just before serving for aroma.
• Adjust spice levels according to your preference.
• Add more vegetables like spinach, snap peas, or zucchini to increase nutrition.
• For meal prep, store noodles and sauce separately to prevent sogginess.

  

Chef Style Pro Tips For Perfect Result 

Crispy Tofu Tip: Make sure to pat tofu completely dry before frying. Tossing lightly in cornstarch gives an extra crunchy texture.

Noodles Texture: Cook noodles just until tender (al dente). Overcooked noodles become mushy and won’t hold the sauce well.

Sauce Consistency: Adjust water in the peanut sauce gradually to achieve the desired thickness. For a creamier sauce, use less water.

Spice Level: Modify chili flakes or Sriracha according to your heat preference. Mild for kids, extra spicy for adults.

Vegetables: Keep vegetables slightly crisp while stir-frying to maintain texture. You can also steam harder veggies like broccoli for 1-2 minutes before stir-frying.

Storage: Store noodles and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Combine and reheat gently before serving.

Reheating: Use a pan or microwave with a splash of water to prevent noodles from drying out.

Make-Ahead Meal Prep: Prepare tofu and sauce in advance. Quickly stir-fry vegetables and noodles when ready to eat.

Garnishing: Fresh cilantro, spring onions, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts add flavor and visual appeal.

How To Enjoy This Tofu Peanut Noodles 

• Top with Crunchy Peanuts: Add crushed roasted peanuts for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped spring onions, cilantro, or basil for freshness and color.
• Serve Hot or Cold: Enjoy as a warm comforting meal, or chill slightly for a refreshing cold noodle bowl.
• Pair with Steamed Veggies: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, carrots, or edamame for a balanced meal.
• Great with Asian Sides: Pair with dumplings, vegetable spring rolls, or a light cucumber salad.
• Add a Lime Wedge: Serve with lemon or lime on the side for an extra zesty kick.
• Protein Boost Option: Add extra tofu, chickpeas, or grilled mushrooms for a heavier meal.
• Lunchbox-Friendly: Pack the noodles with sauce separately to keep freshness and prevent sogginess.

🥗 Nutritional Info / Diet Info (Per Serving)

Calories	≈ 380 kcal
Protein	≈ 18 g
Carbohydrates	≈ 42 g
Fats	≈ 14 g
Fiber	≈ 6 g
Calcium	≈ 120 mg
Iron	≈ 3 mg
Vitamin A & C	Good source (from vegetables)

Diet Friendly: Vegan • Can be made Gluten-Free • No added sugar • Balanced in protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
Perfect for weight management, post-workout meals, or a quick healthy dinner.

Trying This Twist Of Tofu Peanut Noodles 

Thai-Inspired Peanut Noodles
If you love bold and zesty flavors, add a splash of lime juice, a pinch of brown sugar, and a few crushed peanuts on top. This gives your tofu peanut noodles that authentic Thai street food touch tangy, spicy, and creamy all at once.

Creamy Coconut Peanut Noodles
Add half a cup of coconut milk to your peanut sauce for a rich, velvety texture. This version is mild in spice but extremely comforting, perfect for kids or when you crave a creamy noodle bowl.

Veggie-Loaded Power Bowl
Mix in extra vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. This not only boosts the nutrition but also adds crunch and vibrant color to your meal great for a balanced lunch or dinner.

Cold Peanut Noodle Salad
For summer days, serve the noodles cold! Toss the tofu and noodles in chilled peanut sauce, add cucumber ribbons and sesame seeds. It’s refreshing, light, and ideal for lunch boxes or picnics.

Gluten-Free Tofu Peanut Noodles
Use rice noodles or buckwheat soba instead of wheat noodles. The result is just as flavorful, and it’s a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivity.

Extra-Spicy Chili Garlic Version
Love spicy? Add extra chili flakes or a spoon of chili oil. It gives the noodles a fiery kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut base a must-try for spice lovers.

Protein-Packed Meal Bowl
Top your noodles with roasted chickpeas, edamame, or tempeh for extra plant-based protein. This version turns a simple noodle dish into a complete, energizing meal.

  

More Delicious Recipes to Try This 

Perfect Waffles at Home - Step-by-step guide to golden, crispy waffles you can make with or without a waffle maker.

Veg Quesadilla Recipe - Indian-fusion quesadilla filled with paneer, veggies & cheese, cooked on tawa; fast, tasty & family-friendly.

Healthy Broccoli And Lentil Soup - Comforting, nutrient-rich soup that’s vegan-friendly and perfect for cold evenings or light meals.

Misal Pav Recipe - Authentic Maharashtrian street-food favourite made at home: spicy bean curry, crunchy topping, buttery pav.

Masala Methi Thepla Recipe - Flavorful Gujarati thepla infused with fresh methi and masala, great for breakfast, lunchboxes or travel.

Dal Chawal (Rice) Recipe - A timeless comfort combo: perfectly tempered dal paired with fluffy rice—simple, wholesome and satisfying.

Crispy Falafel Recipe - Middle-Eastern inspired falafel that’s crisp outside, tender inside; perfect for wraps, salads or snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles so flavorful?▼

The flavor comes from the balance of creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili. The sauce coats the noodles and tofu, creating a perfect mix of nutty, spicy, and savory notes.

2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?▼

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a little texture and bite to the sauce. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the sauce briefly before mixing it with noodles.

3. What type of noodles work best for this recipe?▼

You can use rice noodles, soba noodles, or even spaghetti. Thinner noodles absorb the sauce better, while thicker ones give a chewier texture — both work great depending on your preference.

4. How do I make this dish vegan and gluten-free?▼

It’s already vegan if you use tofu and plant-based ingredients. To make it gluten-free, simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce, and choose gluten-free noodles.

5. Can I make Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles ahead of time?▼

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and tofu in advance and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Combine everything just before serving to keep the noodles from getting soggy.

6. What vegetables can I add to make it healthier?▼

You can add bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for crunch and color. Lightly sauté or steam them so they stay crisp and add freshness to the noodles.

7. How can I make the sauce spicier or milder?▼

For more heat, add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh Thai chilies. To make it milder, reduce the chili paste or balance the spice with a bit more peanut butter and lime juice.

8. What’s the best way to cook tofu for this recipe?▼

Press tofu to remove excess water, then pan-fry or bake it until golden and crisp. This helps it absorb the sauce better and adds a delicious bite to the dish.

9. How long do leftovers last and how should I reheat them?▼

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water to loosen the sauce before serving.

Final Thought

Cooking isn’t just about mixing ingredients it’s about creating joy in every bite. These Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles are a perfect reminder of how simple food can be elevated with a touch of creativity and heart. The creamy peanut sauce, the hint of spice, and the soft tofu come together to create a comforting yet energizing meal that fits every mood from lazy lunch breaks to cozy dinner nights.

If you’re someone who loves experimenting with global flavors and healthy meals, this recipe is a must-try. Even Chef Ranveer Brar often says that great food is about balance taste, texture, and love and this bowl delivers exactly that.

So go ahead, make it, and don’t forget to share your version! Drop a comment, tag your photos, or tell how you gave it your personal twist. Your kitchen, your rules but one thing’s for sure: this dish will never disappoint.

Spicy Tofu Peanut Noodles

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

15 min

Total Time

30 min

Servings

2

Cuisine

Asian / Fusion

Category

Main Course / Dinner

⭐ Rating: 4.9 / 5 (Based on 180 reviews)

Ingredients

• 200g noodles (rice or wheat)
• 200g firm tofu, cubed
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp chili sauce or sriracha
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup warm water (to thin sauce)
• Chopped spring onions & roasted peanuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Boil noodles as per packet instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat sesame oil in a pan, add cubed tofu, and pan-fry until golden on all sides. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic for a few seconds.
4. Add soy sauce, chili sauce, peanut butter, vinegar, brown sugar, and warm water. Stir until creamy.
5. Toss cooked noodles and tofu into the sauce, mixing well so everything is coated evenly.
6. Garnish with spring onions and crushed peanuts. Serve hot.