MUST-TRY 15-minute dinner meals » easy + healthy

tofu

🥗Healthier: tempeh

💰Cheaper: seitan

Tempeh is a protein-rich alternative, while seitan is often less expensive.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: almond milk

Light coconut milk reduces calories, while almond milk is a budget-friendly substitute.

red curry paste

🥗Healthier: homemade curry paste

💰Cheaper: store-brand curry paste

Homemade can be healthier and cheaper if you have the spices.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon cubes

Homemade is healthier, while bouillon is a cost-effective option.

Cut an extra firm block of tofu into small squares.

In a large non-stick pan on medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and the tofu blocks.

Let the tofu sit and don't disturb it to avoid breaking it apart.

Mince a small thumb-sized piece of ginger and three cloves of garlic.

Add the minced ginger and garlic to a pot on high heat with a bit of vegetable oil.

Cook the ginger and garlic for a couple of minutes, adding a splash of water as needed to deglaze the pan.

Check on the tofu and turn it periodically to cook evenly on a few sides.

Add 3 tablespoons of Thai red curry paste to the pot and cook for an extra minute, stirring.

Add 2 vegetable bouillon cubes, 2.5 cups of boiling water, a can of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of sodium reduced soy sauce, and 2 teaspoons of sambal hot sauce (optional) to the pot.

Thinly slice a red bell pepper and cut those slices in half, then add to the pot.

Stir the mixture, partially cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about five minutes.

Check the tofu; if it is crispy and done, set it aside.

Prepare instant whole-grain rice noodles (about 125 grams) that cook in three minutes.

Cut the ends off of two small heads of bok choy and rinse them.

Add the noodles to the pot and stir; they should start to soften immediately.

Add the bok choy to the pot and stir as well.

After three minutes, add the cooked tofu to the pot and remove from heat.

Grab your garnishes and serve the soup in bowls, topping with fresh basil, fresh bean sprouts, sliced scallions, and optional fresh sliced chili or lime wedges.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens