If you’re looking to add a delicious Vietnamese-inspired dish to your repertoire, look no further than this refreshing and flavorful Vegetarian Bun Cha Grilled Noodle Salad. This recipe puts a vegetarian twist on the traditional Vietnamese dish Bun Cha, typically made with grilled pork, by using marinated tofu instead. Packed with fresh herbs, crispy veggies, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a perfect light and satisfying meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors.
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz vermicelli rice noodles
– 1 block firm tofu, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1/4 cup crushed peanuts, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the vermicelli rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a shallow dish, combine soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and water. Add the tofu slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Remove tofu from the marinade and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, assemble the salad by layering cooked vermicelli noodles, cucumber slices, julienned carrot, bean sprouts, mint leaves, and cilantro leaves.
5. Top the salad with the grilled tofu slices and sprinkle crushed peanuts over the top.
6. Serve the Vegetarian Bun Cha Grilled Noodle Salad with lime wedges on the side for a tangy kick.
Enjoy this vibrant and aromatic dish that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine in a vegetarian-friendly way. The marinated tofu brings a savory element, while the fresh herbs and zesty dressing provide a burst of flavors that will transport you to the bustling streets of Hanoi. This salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight with its array of colorful and nutritious ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or even a side dish at your next gathering, this Vegetarian Bun Cha Grilled Noodle Salad is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.
