How to Cook Chinese-style Tofu with Cashews and Vegetables
Cooking a delicious Chinese-style tofu dish with cashews and vegetables is a fantastic way to embrace the flavors of Asian cuisine. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Follow these easy steps to create a delectable and healthy meal that you and your loved ones will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 cup of cashews, unsalted
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas work well)
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce (or vegetarian substitute)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Begin by cutting the drained tofu into bite-sized cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
2. Toast the Cashews:
In the same pan, add the cashews and toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove the cashews and set them aside with the tofu.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil in the same skillet. Increase the heat to high and toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly to release their aromas. Then, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked tofu and cashews to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together gently, ensuring that the tofu and vegetables are well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve:
Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the tofu and vegetable mix over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with additional cashews or sesame seeds if desired.
Tips for Cooking Chinese-Style Tofu with Cashews
- For extra flavor, marinate the tofu in soy sauce for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables such as carrots, asparagus, or bok choy.
- To make it spicy, consider adding chili paste or fresh chili peppers to the stir-fry.
This Chinese-style tofu with cashews and vegetables is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of texture and taste. Enjoy this wholesome dish that is as healthy as it is satisfying!