How to Make Chinese-style Stir-Fried Snow Peas with Tofu
Chinese-style stir-fried snow peas with tofu is a delicious and healthy dish that highlights fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Follow these easy steps to create this delightful meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of fresh snow peas, trimmed
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (or a vegetarian alternative)
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (optional, for thickening)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel, then place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu
In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the trimmed snow peas. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the peas are bright green and tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked tofu to the pan with the snow peas. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture. Mix everything well and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is evenly coated and heated through, take the pan off the heat. Serve the stir-fried snow peas and tofu hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy this vibrant and nutritious dish!
Tips for the Best Stir-Fried Snow Peas with Tofu
- For added flavor, consider marinating the tofu in soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or some Szechuan sauce while stir-frying.
This Chinese-style stir-fried snow peas with tofu is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing dish that is quick to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or as a healthy meal option for vegetarian and vegan diets. Enjoy creating this delicious recipe in the comfort of your own kitchen!