How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Vegetables with Tofu and Cashews
If you're looking for a healthy, delicious meal packed with flavor, Chinese-style stir-fried vegetables with tofu and cashews is a fantastic option. This dish is not only vibrant and colorful, but it also offers a blend of textures and tastes. Follow this simple recipe to create a stir-fry that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 200g firm tofu, cubed
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 1/3 cup cashews, roasted
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Tofu
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed tofu. Fry the tofu for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it begins to soften. Then, add the garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to release their aromas.
Next, add the broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrot to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. It's essential not to overcook the veggies to maintain their vibrant color and crunch.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the crispy tofu back into the pan. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing everything together to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Add Cashews
Finally, stir in the roasted cashews for a delightful crunch. Give the stir-fry a final toss and remove it from heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chinese-style stir-fried vegetables with tofu and cashews over a bed of steamed rice or toss it with noodles. You can also top it with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added flavor.
This stir-fry not only makes for a delicious meal but is also a nutritious choice, brimming with vitamins and protein. It's a great dish for weeknight dinners or meal prep to enjoy throughout the week!
Conclusion
Cooking Chinese-style stir-fried vegetables with tofu and cashews is simple and quick, making it an ideal recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish. This recipe is versatile – feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables or add in other protein sources for variety. Enjoy your culinary journey in making this delightful, wholesome meal!