Radish & Cucumber Noodles With Miso Tofu

This simple noodle dish is packed with Lung-supportive ingredients, making it ideal for the beginning of autumn, while still having fresh enough flavours to enjoy on a warm, sunny day. Its key ingredients include:

Radish: Cool, pungent, and sweet, radishes support the Lung and assist the circulation of qi.

Cucumber: Cold and sweet cucumber clears away excess heat and detoxifies.

Spring onion: Warm and pungent spring onions invigorate yang and assist the circulation of Blood.

Coriander: Warm and pungent coriander leaf assists the circulation of qi and Blood.

Tofu: Cold, sweet, and salty, tofu moistens the Lung, nourishes yin, and supports digestion.

Recipe (serves 1)

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 5-10 minutes

Ingredients

For the noodle salad:

• 1 nest of noodles of your choice

• 3-4 radishes, finely sliced

• 2-inch piece of cucumber, cut in half lengthways and finely sliced

• 1-2 spring onions, finely sliced

• Small bunch of coriander, roughly chopped

For the tofu:

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

• 100g firm tofu, cut into cubes

For the miso dressing:

• 1-inch piece of ginger root, finely chopped or grated

• 1 teaspoon white miso paste

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• 2 teaspoons rice mirin

• 2 teaspoons ume su or apple cider vinegar

• 2 teaspoons light soy sauce

To serve:

• Black sesame seeds (optional)

Method

1. Place the ingredients for the dressing in a small bowl and mix well, stirring until the miso and honey have dissolved. Set aside

2. Cook the noodles according to the packet instructions.

3. While the noodles are cooking, heat the coconut oil in a large frying pan. Season the tofu and lightly fry, turning the cubes frequently until just turning golden on each side.

4. Drain the noodles, return to the pan and quickly toss with the radish, cucumber, spring onions, and coriander, then tip onto a serving plate.

5. Top with the tofu and pour over the dressing.

6. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds, if using, and serve.

For more healthy eating tips according to traditional Chinese medicine, visit the Dietary Therapy section of the website, or book a consultation for personalised advice.