How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Peppers and Soy Sauce
Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with peppers and soy sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for the week. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by draining the tofu and pressing it 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: Marinate the Tofu
In a medium bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce with the tofu cubes. Gently toss to coat the tofu evenly. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes. This step helps to infuse the tofu with flavor.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced bell peppers and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crispy. Remove the peppers from the pan and set them aside.
Step 4: Cook the Tofu
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the marinated tofu cubes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. This gives the tofu a nice texture, making it more enjoyable in the stir-fry.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once the tofu is nicely browned, add the cooked peppers back to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir well to combine and allow everything to cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions for an added burst of freshness.
This Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with peppers and soy sauce pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your healthy and flavorful meal, and don’t forget to impress your friends and family with this vibrant dish!
Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Tofu
- Pressing the tofu is crucial to achieving a good texture and allowing the flavors to penetrate.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand, such as broccoli, carrots, or snow peas.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or slices of fresh chili while stir-frying.
By following these steps, you can easily whip up a delightful Chinese-style stir-fried tofu dish that highlights the delicious flavors of soy sauce and fresh peppers. Enjoy cooking!