How to Cook Chinese-style Vegetable and Tofu Stir-Fry with Spices
If you’re craving a delicious and healthy meal, Chinese-style vegetable and tofu stir-fry with spices is an excellent choice. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Follow these simple steps to whip up a vibrant, tasty stir-fry that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
To make a satisfying Chinese-style vegetable and tofu stir-fry, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by cutting the firm tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, combine the cubed tofu with soy sauce and let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This helps to infuse the tofu with flavor.
After marinating, sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu cubes and toss gently until each piece is coated. The cornstarch creates a crispy texture when fried.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring quickly to avoid burning. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the broccoli, bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for 5-6 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a bit of crunch for the best texture.
Step 4: Combine and Season
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Drizzle with sesame oil and add red pepper flakes if you desire some heat. Stir everything together to combine well, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors to your preference.
Step 5: Serve
Your Chinese-style vegetable and tofu stir-fry is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for an added touch.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
- Always prep your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth stir-frying process.
- Use high heat to achieve that signature stir-fry flavor.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Add nuts like cashews or peanuts for additional texture and flavor.
This Chinese-style vegetable and tofu stir-fry is not only simple to prepare but also a delightful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables. Packed with nutrition and flavor, it’s a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor your creation!