How to Prepare Chinese-style Stir-Fried Vegetables with Tofu and Oyster Sauce
Stir-frying is a common cooking technique in Chinese cuisine that highlights the fresh flavors and textures of vegetables. This guide will walk you through the steps of preparing a delicious Chinese-style stir-fried vegetable dish with tofu and oyster sauce. Perfect as a main dish or a side, this recipe is not only flavorful but also healthy.
Ingredients
To prepare this scrumptious stir-fried dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu (about 14 oz), drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 cup snow peas or sugar snap peas
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
1. Preparing the Tofu
Start by cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes. Stir-fry the tofu until golden brown on all sides, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the broccoli, bell pepper, snow peas, and carrot. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender yet still crisp.
3. Combining Ingredients
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the tofu to the pan. Pour in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat everything evenly. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Serving
Serve the stir-fried vegetables and tofu hot over cooked rice or noodles. For an added touch, you can garnish your dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions.
Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Vegetables
- Prepare all ingredients beforehand, as stir-frying is a quick process and you won’t have time to chop while cooking.
- Use high heat to achieve a good sear on the tofu and to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables.
- Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn.
This Chinese-style stir-fried vegetables with tofu and oyster sauce is a perfect dish for any day of the week. It's not only quick to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a delightful and healthy meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure!