How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Cabbage and Garlic
Cooking Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with cabbage and garlic is a delightful way to enjoy a simple yet flavorful dish. This vegetarian recipe is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into the steps for making this delicious meal.
Ingredients
To create this delightful stir-fry, gather the following ingredients:
- 400g firm tofu, cubed
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Follow these steps to whip up your delightful Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with cabbage and garlic:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu. Wrap the cubed tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top it to remove excess moisture for about 15 minutes. This step helps the tofu absorb flavors better and attain a crisp texture when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pressed tofu cubes. Spread them out in a single layer and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Cabbage
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, then add the minced garlic (and ginger if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the chopped cabbage and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until it is tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked tofu to the skillet with the sautéed cabbage and garlic. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients and allow the flavors to meld, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is nicely combined and heated through, remove from heat. Serve your delicious stir-fried tofu with cabbage and garlic hot, accompanied by steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
To enhance the flavors of your dish, consider marinating the tofu in soy sauce and garlic for about 30 minutes before cooking. Additionally, feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the stir-fry.
Conclusion
This Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with cabbage and garlic is not only a quick and easy meal, but it’s also packed with health benefits. With protein from tofu and fiber from the cabbage, it’s a satisfying option that won't leave you feeling heavy. Try this recipe today for a tasty and wholesome dining experience!