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. You can adjust the amount of seasoning based on your preference. 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.)
Click here to learn more about our plant-based membership called, The Collective
Stay connected with news and updates!
Join our mailing list to receive the latest plant-based tips, tricks, and recipes.
Don't worry, your information will not be shared.
We hate SPAM. We will never sell your information, for any reason.
