How to Make Chinese-style Tofu Stir-Fry with Spicy Vegetables
Chinese-style tofu stir-fry with spicy vegetables is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare. Packed with protein from the tofu and a variety of vitamins from the vegetables, this stir-fry is a favorite in many households. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful meal that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
To make a tasty Chinese-style tofu stir-fry, gather the following ingredients:
- 400g firm tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sugar snap peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spring onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to prepare your Chinese-style tofu stir-fry:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes. This will help it absorb flavors and achieve a nice texture.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, chili paste, and cornstarch. Add the cubed tofu to the marinade and gently toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and slice the bell pepper, broccoli, and sugar snap peas. Mince the garlic and ginger for an added kick of flavor. Having these vegetables prepped and ready will make the stir-frying process smoother.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Ingredients
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu cubes. Fry them until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the bell pepper, broccoli, and sugar snap peas. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-5 minutes, ensuring they remain crispy and colorful.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the golden tofu to the pan with the vegetables. Stir everything together gently and allow it to cook for another 2 minutes. This step ensures the tofu and vegetables absorb the flavors from the pan.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can add more chili sauce for extra heat. Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with chopped spring onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
- Use high heat for quick cooking; this retains the vegetables' crunch.
- Feel free to customize this stir-fry with your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or baby corn.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook, as stir-frying is a fast process.
Enjoy this vibrant and healthy Chinese-style tofu stir-fry with spicy vegetables over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a quick, satisfying way to enjoy plant-based cuisine.