How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Carrots
Cooking a delicious Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with broccoli and carrots is a great way to enjoy a healthy and vibrant meal. This dish is not only packed with nutrients but also offers a wonderful burst of flavors. Follow this simple guide to create your own stir-fry at home.
Ingredients
For this healthy Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with broccoli and carrots, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu (about 14 oz)
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 1 cup of carrots, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
Step 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 object on top, such as a skillet, for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
In a mixing bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce and cornstarch until evenly coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Tofu
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced carrots and broccoli florets. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the tofu to the pan. Drizzle sesame oil over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the stir-fried tofu with broccoli and carrots from heat. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.
Health Benefits
This stir-fried tofu dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Tofu provides a great source of plant-based protein, while broccoli and carrots are high in vitamins and minerals. This meal is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, making it a healthy choice for any day of the week.
Now that you know how to cook Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with broccoli and carrots, you can enjoy this flavorful and healthy dish anytime. Happy cooking!