Wrap your tofu with some paper towels and sit on top of a plate and then put something heavy on top to “press” the tofu. This is necessary to remove excess moisture and keep the tofu from crumbling when cooked.
Sauce
While it is pressed, prepare the sauce ingredients and place into a jar with a lid. After everything has been added, shake the jar vigoursly to mix. Alternatively you can mix it all in a bowl with a spoon.
Noodles and Putting it Together
Cook your udon noodles, set aside after you rinse it with cold water
If your tofu is ready, cut them into tiny squares.
Fill a deep bowl with your tofu ingredients. Toss in the tofu and either mix with your hands, toss the bowl gently or use a spoon to cover the tofu. This step is needed to get a crispy outside but a soft inside when frying!
Warm up your olive oil. Spread out the tofu squares when placing them inside. Don’t overcrowd them. Using a small spoon, turn the tofu continuously until all sides are lightly browned and crisped! This whole process will take 15 minutes or so! Take your time! It’s so worth it!
Remove to a bowl.
In a large pan, add your olive oil, garlic and shallots. Let it soften and become fragrant. Add your other vegetables and let them soften as well.
Add your sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Add your tofu and noodles and using tongs, gently mix everything together.
Holy Shiitake! This is good! Enjoy with sesame seed garnishes, more spring onions or red chili flakes!