How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Vegetables with Tofu and Chili

Stir-fried vegetables with tofu and chili are a vibrant and nutritious dish that captures the essence of Chinese cooking. This recipe is not only simple but also allows for versatility in choice of vegetables, making it a great option for both vegetarians and meat lovers. Below, you will find a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful stir-fry.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Chinese-style stir-fried vegetables with tofu and chili, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 block of firm tofu (around 14 oz), drained and cubed
  • 2 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas work well)
  • 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
  • 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced (adjust based on heat preference)
  • 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons of water (optional for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu

Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel, place a heavy skillet or a cutting board on top, and allow it to sit for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

2. Heat the Oil

In a large wok or skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.

3. Cook the Tofu

Add the cubed tofu to the hot oil and fry until it’s golden and crispy on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to gently flip the tofu to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.

4. Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same wok or skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Then, add the minced garlic, minced ginger, and sliced chili peppers. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes. The vegetables should be vibrant and slightly tender but still crisp. Feel free to adjust the cooking time based on the types of vegetables used.

5. Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked tofu to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, and if you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixture at this point. Stir everything together, ensuring the tofu and vegetables are coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

6. Season and Serve

Season the stir-fry with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top for added flavor and presentation.

Serve your Chinese-style stir-fried vegetables with tofu and chili hot, over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for Best Results

  • Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
  • For added flavor, marinate the tofu in soy sauce for about 15 minutes before cooking.
  • Adjust the number of chili peppers based on your heat tolerance.

This delicious dish is quick, healthy, and full of flavor, perfect for a weeknight meal. Enjoy cooking and savoring your homemade Chinese-style stir-fried vegetables with tofu and chili!