How to Make Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Peppers and Onions

Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with peppers and onions is a vibrant, flavorful dish that is not only simple to make but also packed with nutrients. This dish is perfect for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. In this guide, we’ll explore the easy steps to create this delicious meal at home.

Ingredients

To make this stir-fry, you will need the following ingredients:

1 block of firm tofu
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of ginger, minced
1 tablespoon of cornstarch
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (for frying)
Optional: sliced scallions and sesame seeds for garnish

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to prepare your Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with peppers and onions:

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Begin by draining the tofu and pressing it gently to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. For added texture, you can marinate the tofu cubes in soy sauce and cornstarch for about 15 minutes. This will help the tofu absorb more flavor and create a nice crispy coating when fried.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Stir fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they become tender yet still crisp.

Step 3: Cook the Tofu

In the same skillet, push the vegetables to the side and add the marinated tofu cubes. Cook the tofu for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor and texture of the dish.

Step 4: Combine and Flavor

Once the tofu is golden brown, mix it together with the stir-fried vegetables. Pour in the sesame oil and toss everything together, ensuring the tofu and veggies are well coated. If desired, adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

For an extra touch, garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds. Serve your delicious stir-fried tofu with peppers and onions hot, over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Stir-Fry

Here are a few additional tips to enhance your stir-fried tofu experience:

For extra crunch, add other vegetables like carrots or snap peas.
Ensure your pan is hot enough to achieve that perfect sear on the tofu.
Using firm tofu is recommended so it holds its shape during cooking.

This Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with peppers and onions is not only quick to prepare but also offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Enjoy this wholesome meal as a nutritious option for lunch or dinner.