Cold Wheat Noodles with Crispy Tofu, Cucumber and Marinated Egg

A refreshing Asian-style noodle dish that comes together quickly, especially if you prepare the marinated eggs in advance.

This dish is part of my noodle series inspired by Asian flavors. Cold wheat noodles are paired with crispy fried tofu, fresh cucumber and a deeply flavorful marinated egg. The sauce is a savory–spicy blend of okonomiyaki sauce, soy sauce, chili and a small amount of kimchi juice. The final result is refreshing, light and full of umami.

Ingredients

For the Marinated Eggs (prepare in advance)

• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 small piece of fresh ginger, sliced
• 1 teaspoon chili paste or chopped fresh chili

For the Noodles

• 200 g wheat noodles (udon or any Asian wheat noodles)
• 200 g firm tofu
• 1 small cucumber
• Oil for frying
• Salt, to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons okonomiyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili paste
• 1–2 tablespoons kimchi juice, to taste

How to Make It

1. Prepare the Marinated Eggs

1. Boil the eggs for 6–7 minutes so the yolks stay soft.
2. Transfer to ice water and peel.
3. Combine soy sauce, mirin, ginger and chili in a small container.
4. Add the eggs and make sure they are fully coated.
5. Marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.

2. Prepare the Tofu

1. Pat the tofu dry with a paper towel.
2. Cut into small cubes.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Fry the tofu until golden and crispy on all sides.
5. Season lightly with salt and set aside.

3. Cook the Noodles

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions.
2. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking and cool them down.
3. Drain well.

4. Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the okonomiyaki sauce, soy sauce, chili paste and kimchi juice.
2. Adjust the amount of kimchi juice to achieve your desired level of acidity and heat.

5. Assemble the Dish

1. Place the cold noodles into a serving bowl.
2. Add the crispy tofu on top.
3. Slice the cucumber thinly and arrange it around the noodles.
4. Cut the marinated egg in half and place it on top.
5. Pour the sauce over everything, or serve it on the side.

Serving Suggestions

• Add toasted sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor.
• If you like it spicier, add a spoonful of chili oil before serving.
• The dish tastes best when the noodles are very cold, so you can even chill them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before assembling.