How to Prepare Chinese-style Stir-Fried Green Beans with Tofu

Chinese-style stir-fried green beans with tofu is a flavorful and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. This recipe combines the crispiness of fresh green beans, the protein-rich texture of tofu, and a savory sauce that brings everything together. Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients Needed

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian version)
1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Prep the Tofu

Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

2. Cook the Tofu

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Green Beans

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed, then toss in the trimmed green beans. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the beans are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

4. Add Aromatics

Once the green beans are cooked to your liking, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked tofu back into the skillet with the green beans. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste, mixing everything together gently. Allow the dish to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring that all the flavors meld together.

6. Season and Serve

Taste the stir-fry and add salt and pepper as needed. Once satisfied, transfer the dish to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Tips for the Best Stir-Fried Green Beans with Tofu

For extra crunch, blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 2 minutes before stir-frying.
Feel free to customize the dish by adding bell peppers, carrots, or other vegetables.
Serve this dish with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Stir-fried green beans with tofu is not only easy to make but also a healthy option for dinner. Enjoy this vibrant dish packed with flavors, and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!