How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Cabbage with Garlic and Tofu
Cooking a delicious Chinese-style stir-fried cabbage with garlic and tofu is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy ingredients while creating a satisfying dish. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows the vibrant flavors of garlic and the crunch of cabbage to shine through. Here’s how to make this delectable dish at home.
Ingredients
To make Chinese-style stir-fried cabbage with garlic and tofu, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, sliced
- 200 grams of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (like canola or sunflower oil)
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start 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 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Tofu
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5 minutes. The cabbage should become tender yet still retain some crunch. If necessary, add a splash of water to help steam the cabbage and speed up the cooking process.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, return the fried tofu to the skillet. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture and stir well to combine. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is heated through and well mixed, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve the stir-fried cabbage and tofu over steamed rice or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
- For extra flavor, consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots.
- You can incorporate proteins like chicken or shrimp if you prefer a non-vegetarian version.
- Adjust the soy sauce to taste – if you prefer a saltier dish, add more, but be cautious not to overpower the other flavors.
Enjoy your homemade Chinese-style stir-fried cabbage with garlic and tofu! This dish is not only nutritious but also a great way to explore the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine.