Get ready to transform your meal time with a mouthwatering vegan twist on a classic Jewish comfort dish! This Spinach Noodle Kugel is not just another recipe – it's a creamy, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying meal that will make even non-vegans ask for seconds. Packed with protein-rich tofu, vibrant spinach, and a deliciously cheesy nutritional yeast flavor, this kugel proves that plant-based cooking can be both exciting and comforting.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz wide egg-free noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup tofu, crumbled
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with plant-based butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg-free noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, crumble the tofu using your hands or a fork until it resembles a ricotta-like texture.
- Add chopped spinach, nutritional yeast, plant-based milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the crumbled tofu. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Gently fold the cooked noodles into the tofu and spinach mixture, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is lightly golden and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the kugel cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Slice into portions and serve warm as a main dish or side.
Tips
- Choose the right noodles: Opt for wide, egg-free noodles to maintain the traditional kugel texture.
- Tofu trick: Press your tofu thoroughly before crumbling to ensure maximum moisture absorption and better texture.
- Nutritional yeast secret: For an extra cheesy flavor, don't skimp on the nutritional yeast – it's the key to that rich, savory taste.
- Crispy top hack: For an extra crispy top layer, broil the kugel for 2-3 minutes after baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Make-ahead magic: This kugel can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, nutritious meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
