Soba noodles two-ways

This is a super fast and easy to make dinner which is great for a rushed evening meal-or at any time of day.

Soba Noodles with Black Bean Sauce and Broccoli

(+Tofu or Beef or Chicken or…)

1 package soba noodles

1 lb tofu, cubed (or the equivalent amount of meat)

1-2 Tbsp peanut (or veggie oil)

1 Tbsp sesame oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2-3 cloves garlic, diced

1 in piece of fresh ginger, grated

1-2lbs broccoli, chopped

2 cups veggie (or beef broth)

2-4 Tbsp black bean paste

1 tsp rice vinegar

2 Tbsp cornstarch

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

1 Tbsp sesame seeds (black or white)

Cook noodles according to package directions and rinse with cool water, set aside.

In a large frying pan saute they tofu or meat in the peanut and sesame oil for 3-5 minutes or until browned.  Add the onion and cook until onion is beginning to get translucent, about 3 minutes.  Stir in the garlic and ginger and saute an additional  minute.

Add the broccoli and 1/2 cup of water and cover, cooking over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until broccoli begins to get tender.

In a separate bowl mix together stock, black bean paste, vinegar and cornstarch until smooth.  Pour over broccoli and cook, mixing, until mixture begins to boil and thicken.  Mix in noodles and heat thoroughly.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chili pepper flakes.  Adjust seasoning by adding vinegar, soy sauce or sweet soy sauce.