Shiitake Noodle Bowl with Tofu

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth Base

   6 min hands-on15 min waiting

   • Mince the ginger, garlic, and shallot.
   • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced ingredients and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 5 minutes until aromatic.
   • Add tamari and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring frequently.
   • Dissolve vegetable broth in water and add to the saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer.

2. Roast the Shiitake Mushrooms

   5 min hands-on28 min waiting

   • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Break dried shiitake mushrooms into smaller pieces and soak in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
   • Toss mushrooms with olive oil and tamari. Spread on a baking tray in a single layer.
   • Roast for 15-18 minutes until crispy and golden.

3. Cook the Noodles and Edamame

   3 min hands-on8 min waiting

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions until tender.
   • In the final minute, add frozen edamame in a sieve to thaw.
   • Drain noodles and edamame. Rinse under cold water and set aside separately.
   • Toss noodles with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

4. Prepare the Tofu

   5 min hands-on

   • Press tofu with paper towels to remove moisture. Cut into cubes.
   • Optionally, pan-fry tofu cubes in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden.

5. Assemble the Bowls

   3 min hands-on

   • Distribute broth evenly among bowls.
   • Add noodles, edamame, tofu cubes, and roasted shiitake mushrooms.
   • Garnish with cilantro leaves and drizzle with chili oil.
   • Cooking tips:
   • To enhance the umami flavor of the broth, add a splash of rice vinegar or a few drops of sesame oil before serving.
   • For a spicier kick, stir a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha into the broth while it simmers.
   • Ensure the shiitake mushrooms are well-coated in oil and spread out evenly on the tray for even roasting and maximum crispiness.
   • For a gluten-free version, use tamari and gluten-free soba noodles.