How to Prepare Chinese Tofu with Vegetables
Chinese tofu with vegetables is a delicious and nutritious dish that showcases the unique textures and flavors of tofu paired with a variety of colorful vegetables. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this dish can be easily prepared in just a few simple steps. Follow this guide to create a mouth-watering meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Tofu
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy pan on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. Marinate the Tofu
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce and sesame oil. Add the tofu cubes, ensuring each piece is coated. Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you have time.
3. Coat with Cornstarch
Sprinkle the cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss gently to coat each piece. This step will help create a crispy texture when cooked.
4. Prepare the Vegetables
While the tofu is marinating, wash and chop your vegetables. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. You can use any combination of vegetables you like—bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots work wonderfully together.
5. Cook the Tofu
Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil and then gently place the coated tofu cubes in the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
6. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add your chopped vegetables and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.
7. Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the crispy tofu to the pan with the vegetables. Toss everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes. If desired, you can add a splash of soy sauce or a dash of chili sauce for added flavor.
8. Serve
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Chinese tofu and vegetable mixture over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra burst of freshness.
Tips for Success
- Experiment with different vegetables depending on the season or personal preference.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of hoisin sauce or oyster sauce during the stir-frying stage.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, include red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha before serving.
This Chinese tofu with vegetables is not only easy to prepare but also offers a healthy and flavorful meal option. Enjoy your culinary creation and impress your family and friends with this delightful dish!