How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu and Vegetables with Soy Sauce

Cooking Chinese-style stir-fried tofu and vegetables is a simple yet delightful way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers numerous health benefits. Below is a step-by-step guide to create this tasty recipe at home.

Ingredients

To prepare stir-fried tofu and vegetables, you’ll need:

  • 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to prepare an authentic Chinese stir-fried tofu and vegetables dish:

1. Prepare the Tofu

Begin by cutting the firm tofu into bite-sized cubes. Make sure the tofu is well-pressed to remove excess water, which helps it achieve a crispy texture when cooked.

2. Marinate the Tofu

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce with a dash of salt and pepper. Add the tofu cubes to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Let the tofu marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure that the oil is hot before adding the tofu; this will help to create a nice sear.

4. Cook the Tofu

Add the marinated tofu to the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning the tofu cubes occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.

5. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary and toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and julienned carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-5 minutes until they are vibrant and slightly tender but still crisp.

6. Combine Tofu and Vegetables

Return the cooked tofu to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together gently, adding any remaining marinade if desired. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

7. Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

Serve your Chinese-style stir-fried tofu and vegetables hot over steamed rice or your favorite noodles. Enjoy!

Conclusion

This simple recipe for Chinese-style stir-fried tofu and vegetables with soy sauce is a go-to for a quick, healthy meal. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, it’s sure to be a hit at your dining table!