How to Make Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Mushrooms and Soy Sauce

Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with mushrooms and soy sauce is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of soy sauce with the earthy undertones of mushrooms. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or for impressing guests at your next dinner party.

With its focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this dish is not only satisfying but also healthy. Whether you are a tofu enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe will surely be a hit! Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful stir-fry.

Ingredients

1 block of firm tofu (about 14 ounces)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, or your choice), sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced (red, green, or yellow)
3 green onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for a crispy texture)
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu

Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

2. Marinate (Optional)

If you want to enhance the flavor of your tofu, you can marinate it in a mix of 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a pinch of salt for about 15 minutes. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.

3. Cook the Tofu

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to turn the tofu gently to avoid breaking it. Once crispy, remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and bell pepper, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Combine Ingredients

Once the vegetables are cooked, return the tofu to the pan. Pour in the remaining soy sauce and toss everything together until well combined. If you're using cornstarch for added crispiness, sprinkle a tablespoon over the tofu and vegetables, mixing quickly to coat everything. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

6. Finish and Serve

Once everything is well mixed and heated through, add the chopped green onions and toss again. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as desired. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Tofu

Use firm tofu for the best texture.
Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or carrots for extra nutrition.
Pair this dish with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

This Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with mushrooms and soy sauce is a quick and nutritious meal that's sure to please! Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side to complement your favorite Asian dishes. Happy cooking!