Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Japan with this mind-blowing Tamarind Soba Noodle Salad! Imagine a dish that combines the nutty richness of buckwheat soba noodles with the intense, tangy punch of tamarind, creating a symphony of flavors that will make your palate dance with excitement. This isn't just another salad – it's a quick, refreshing masterpiece that promises to revolutionize your lunch or dinner routine in just 15 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 200g soba noodles
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add soba noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically 4-5 minutes, until noodles are tender but still have a slight bite.
- While noodles are cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes. Once noodles are cooked, immediately drain and transfer them to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and cool them quickly.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined to create a smooth, tangy dressing.
- Drain the cooled soba noodles thoroughly and pat dry with clean kitchen towels to remove excess moisture.
- Add julienned cucumber and carrots to the noodles, then pour the tamarind dressing over the ingredients. Gently toss to ensure even coating and distribution of vegetables and sauce.
- Transfer the noodle salad to serving plates or a large serving bowl. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds for added texture and nutty flavor.
- For best flavor, chill the salad for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips
- Noodle Cooling Hack: The ice bath is crucial! It stops the cooking process and prevents your soba noodles from becoming mushy, ensuring that perfect al dente texture.
- Dressing Technique: Whisk the tamarind, soy sauce, and sesame oil thoroughly to create a smooth, well-integrated dressing that coats every strand of noodle.
- Vegetable Prep: Cut your cucumber and carrots into uniform julienne strips for even distribution and a professional-looking presentation.
- Flavor Intensification: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop a more complex taste profile.
- Garnish Generously: Don't skimp on the sesame seeds – they add a delightful nutty crunch that elevates the entire dish.Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted nori for an authentic Japanese touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
