The Best Chinese Recipes for Stir-Fried Cabbage and Tofu

Stir-fried cabbage and tofu is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, celebrated for its simplicity, nutrition, and rich flavors. This article will guide you through some of the best Chinese recipes that highlight these ingredients, providing step-by-step instructions and tips for creating the perfect stir-fry at home.

1. Classic Stir-Fried Cabbage and Tofu

This classic recipe showcases the essential flavors of soy sauce and garlic, making it a staple in many Chinese households.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 small head of green cabbage, sliced
    • 1 block of firm tofu, cubed
    • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
    • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Instructions:
    1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
    2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
    3. Add the cubed tofu and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
    4. Incorporate the sliced cabbage into the pan and stir well.
    5. Pour in soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cabbage has wilted.
    6. Season with salt and pepper, adjust to taste, and serve hot.

2. Spicy Szechuan Cabbage and Tofu

If you prefer a dish with a kick, try this spicy Szechuan version that uses chili oil and Szechuan peppercorns for added heat and flavor.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 small head of napa cabbage, chopped
    • 1 block of extra-firm tofu, pressed and diced
    • 3 tablespoons of chili oil
    • 1 tablespoon of Szechuan peppercorns
    • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
    • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
    • Green onions for garnish
  • Instructions:
    1. Heat chili oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add Szechuan peppercorns and fry until fragrant.
    2. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds.
    3. Introduce the tofu cubes and stir-fry until crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
    4. Add the chopped napa cabbage, stir to mix, then pour in the soy sauce.
    5. Continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes or until the cabbage is tender but still crunchy.
    6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

3. Ginger Soy Tofu with Cabbage

This recipe emphasizes fresh ginger, offering a zesty and aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with cabbage and tofu.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 small green cabbage, sliced
    • 1 block of firm tofu, drained and sliced
    • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
    • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
    • 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
    • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Instructions:
    1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and add minced ginger.
    2. After 1 minute, add sliced tofu and cook until golden on all sides, approximately 8 minutes.
    3. Add sliced cabbage to the pan and stir well.
    4. In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce and rice vinegar, then pour this mixture into the pan.
    5. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes or until the cabbage is wilted. Garnish with sesame