Healthy Vegan Ramen with Tofu
Jun 20, 2025
Healthy Vegan Ramen with Air-Fried Tofu
Servings: 3
Time: 20 minutes
Cost per serving: Under $2
My kids love ramen noodles—and honestly, I did too growing up. But now that I’m older (and a little wiser), I know the classic version isn’t exactly the healthiest. The good news? With just a few simple swaps—like ditching the seasoning packet, adding in some veggies and plant-based protein—you can turn basic ramen into a nourishing, delicious meal. I like using the brown rice ramen from Costco, but the regular kind works too. (Plus it's cheaper!) Either way, it’s an easy, kid-approved, plant-based dinner we all enjoy!
✨ Ingredients
For the tofu:
- 1 block firm tofu, torn into chunks
- 2–3 tablespoons soy sauce (enough to coat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the ramen seasoning mix (makes 6 servings):
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked or regular paprika
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt (light or regular)
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or white/coconut sugar)
For the ramen bowls:
- 3 packets of ramen noodles (discard the flavor packets)
- 4½ cups vegetable broth
- 1½ tablespoons of ramen seasoning mix
- 1½ teaspoons soy sauce
- ½ cup matchstick carrots
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- ½ yellow bell pepper, diced
- 3–4 mushrooms, finely chopped
- Optional: ½–1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
🥣 Instructions
- Prepare the tofu:
Tear tofu into bite-sized chunks and gently pat dry. Toss with soy sauce until coated, then sprinkle with garlic powder, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch. Mix well.
Air-fry at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway. (Oven-bake at 425°F for ~25 min if preferred.) - Make the seasoning mix:
Combine all dry seasoning ingredients in a jar. This will replace the ramen packets. Use 1 tablespoon per ramen packet. - Cook the ramen:
In a pot, bring 4½ cups of water or broth to a boil. Add ramen noodles, seasoning mix, and soy sauce. Stir to combine and cook noodles according to package directions (about 3–4 minutes). - Add veggies:
During the last minute of cooking, stir in matchstick carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, and/or frozen veggies. - Assemble and serve:
Divide noodles and broth into bowls. Top with crispy tofu and enjoy hot.
(Tip: To avoid soggy noodles, store noodles and broth separately if making ahead.)
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