How to Make Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Mushrooms and Peppers
Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with mushrooms and peppers is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side. Packed with flavor and texture, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. Follow these simple steps to create a mouth-watering dish that highlights the harmony of tofu, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu
- 1 cup mushrooms (sliced, any variety)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced, any color)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Press the firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it 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 mixing bowl, combine the tofu cubes with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and cornstarch. Gently toss the tofu until it is evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then add the sliced mushrooms and bell peppers, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Tofu
In a separate pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu cubes and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crispy. This gives the tofu a delicious texture that complements the vegetables.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once the tofu is finished cooking, transfer it to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the remaining soy sauce and drizzle with sesame oil. Stir everything together to ensure even coating. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve
Taste your stir-fry and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. You can garnish your stir-fried tofu, mushrooms, and peppers with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
- Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable or canola oil to achieve the best cooking results.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
- Experiment with additional sauces like hoisin or oyster sauce for a different flavor profile.
- For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or ginger to the stir-fry.
This Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with mushrooms and peppers is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavors and textures. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that engages all the senses. Enjoy your homemade dish!