How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Eggplant and Tofu with Spices
Chinese-style stir-fried eggplant and tofu is a delectable dish that brings together the flavors of soft, succulent eggplant and protein-rich tofu. This quick and healthy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be easily customized with your favorite spices. Here’s how to cook this tasty dish using a few simple ingredients and spices.
Ingredients
To make stir-fried eggplant and tofu, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized eggplants, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional)
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to make your stir-fried eggplant and tofu:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Begin by cutting the firm tofu into cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Eggplant
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Introduce the eggplant pieces, which absorb oil easily. Stir-fry the eggplant until it becomes tender, about 5-8 minutes. If the eggplant begins to stick, you can add a splash of water to help it cook evenly.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Once the eggplant is tender, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
Step 4: Combine Tofu and Sauces
Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the eggplant. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste. Sprinkle in the cumin powder and Sichuan peppercorns, mixing everything thoroughly. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the stir-fried eggplant and tofu from the heat. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor.
Tips for a Perfect Stir-Fry
To enhance the flavors of your stir-fried eggplant and tofu, consider these tips:
- For best results, use Chinese eggplant as its tender texture pairs wonderfully with the dish.
- Marinate the tofu in soy sauce for 30 minutes before frying for additional flavor.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili paste according to your taste preferences.
- Experiment with additional vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Now you have a delicious and versatile recipe for Chinese-style stir-fried eggplant and tofu. This dish not only bursts with flavor but is also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy your culinary adventure!