Vermicelli Noodle Recipes and Serving Ideas

These Vermicelli Noodles are a great way to use up fresh vegetables and enjoy a healthy, flavour-packed meal. Ready in about 20 minutes, this simple recipe is quick to prepare and always popular at the table.

Vermicelli Noodles with vegetables and tofu.

Recipe Difficulty – Very Easy

Table of Contents

  • Why this recipe works
  • Ingredients to make Vermicelli Noodles
  • Substitutions
  • Variations
  • How to make Vermicelli Noodles
  • Leftovers
  • Recipe FAQs
  • Vermicelli Noodles Recipe

Why this recipe works

This vermicelli noodle stir-fry combines crisp vegetables, tofu and a punchy umami sauce for a balanced, satisfying meal. The rice vermicelli cooks quickly and soaks up the flavours from tamari and miso without becoming heavy. Using extra-firm tofu keeps the texture pleasing and the vegetables add colour, crunch and nutrients.

The method is straightforward: lightly fry aromatics and vegetables, add beans and tofu with tamari and miso, then fold in the drained noodles and a squeeze of lime. The result is bright, tasty and ready in minutes—perfect for weeknights or a quick lunch.

Ingredients to make Vermicelli Noodles

Ingredients to make Vermicelli Noodles.
  • Sesame oil – for frying the garlic and vegetables and adding a toasty aroma.
  • Red onion – provides a sweet, savoury base flavour.
  • Broccoli – adds colour, texture and nutrition.
  • Carrot – gives natural sweetness and extra crunch.
  • Edamame beans – a nutritious, protein-rich addition.
  • Extra-firm tofu – holds its shape and adds protein; drain or press if necessary.
  • Tamari – a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce that adds savoury depth.
  • Miso paste – brings umami richness that complements the tamari.
  • Garlic – for aromatic savouriness.
  • Ginger – fresh grated ginger adds gentle spice and brightness.
  • Lime – fresh juice lifts the finished dish with acidity.
  • Vermicelli noodles – thin rice noodles that cook quickly and suit gluten-free diets.

See the recipe card below for quantities and full details.

Substitutions

  • Oil: If you don’t have sesame oil, a neutral oil such as vegetable or sunflower can be used—sesame adds the best flavour.
  • Vegetables: Swap in peppers, snap peas, courgette or cabbage—use whatever you have to hand.
  • Protein: Replace tofu with chicken, prawns, beef or a fried egg if you prefer a non-vegan option.
  • Noodles: Udon, egg noodles, spaghetti or linguine can substitute if rice vermicelli isn’t available; adjust cooking times accordingly.

Variations

  • Spicy: Add fresh chilli, sliced bird’s eye or chilli flakes while cooking.
  • Crunchy finish: Scatter roasted peanuts or cashews over the top for texture and richness.
  • Kid-friendly: Choose vegetables your children like and keep the spice level low; thinly slice or grate veg to make it easier to eat.

How to make Vermicelli Noodles

colourful chopped vegetables on a wooden cutting board.

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables: cut broccoli into florets, slice the red onion and carrot, crush the garlic and grate the ginger.

chopped vegetables, garlic and ginger in a wok.

Step 2: Heat sesame oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped vegetables, garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the veg begins to soften but remains crisp.

combining the vegetables and miso paste in a wok pan.

Step 3: Add the edamame, tamari and miso paste. Crumble the tofu into the pan and add a splash of water to loosen the miso, then combine everything so the tofu soaks up the sauce.

vermicelli noodles covered in boiling water.

Step 4: Meanwhile, cover the vermicelli in boiling water and let them soften for a few minutes until tender. Drain thoroughly.

adding noodles and lime juice to the wok pan with vegetables.

Step 5: Add the drained noodles to the wok, squeeze in the lime juice and toss everything together. Heat for a minute or two to combine flavours, then serve immediately.

Hint: Avoid overcooking the vermicelli as they can become clumpy; drain and toss promptly into the wok.

Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4–5 days. Reheat gently in a wok over medium heat or in the microwave until piping hot.

Recipe FAQs

Are vermicelli noodles good for you?

Vermicelli made from rice are lower in fat and can be a light alternative to some wheat-based noodles. Paired with vegetables and a protein like tofu, they make a balanced, nutritious meal.

How do you cook vermicelli noodles?

They cook very quickly. Typically you cover rice vermicelli with boiling water and let them sit for a few minutes until tender, then drain and use immediately.

Can you freeze vermicelli noodles?

Cooked dishes with vermicelli can be frozen for up to three months. Freeze in airtight containers and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What is a good way to use vermicelli noodles?

They work well in stir-fries, soups and salads. Toss them with stir-fried vegetables, a savory sauce and protein for a quick, delicious meal.

vermicelli noodles on a plate.

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Vermicelli Noodles with vegetables and tofu.
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5 from 3 votes

Vermicelli Noodles

By: James Wythe
Tender vermicelli noodles with crisp vegetables and flavorful tofu – bursting with colour and ready in 20 minutes.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 small red onion
  • 1 small head broccoli
  • 1 carrot
  • 90 g edamame beans
  • 1 block extra firm tofu
  • 2 tbsp tamari
  • 1 heaped tsp miso paste
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 thumb-sized piece ginger
  • 1 lime
  • 2 nests vermicelli noodles

Instructions

  • Cut the broccoli into florets, slice the red onion and carrot. Crush the garlic and grate the ginger.
  • Heat sesame oil in a wok over medium-high. Add the chopped vegetables, garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 5 minutes.
  • Add the edamame, tamari and miso. Crumble the tofu into the pan and add a splash of water to loosen the miso, then toss to combine.
  • Meanwhile cover the vermicelli with boiling water and leave for a few minutes until tender, then drain.
  • Add the drained noodles to the pan with the lime juice, toss to combine, heat through briefly and serve.

Notes

Step-by-Step Photos: The post includes helpful photos to guide you through the recipe.

Substitutions & Variations: Options are listed above in the article.

To Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 4–5 days. Reheat in a wok or microwave until hot.

To Freeze: Freeze up to three months in airtight containers. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tip 1: Use extra-firm tofu or press softer tofu to remove excess water for the best texture.

Tip 2: Add fresh chilli or chilli flakes if you prefer heat.

Tip 3: If not vegan, add beef, pork, chicken or prawns for an alternative protein.

Nutrition

Calories: 390kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 13g
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