How to Make Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Vegetables and Chili

Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with vegetables and chili is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe showcases the perfect combination of crispy tofu, vibrant vegetables, and a spicy kick from chili. Whether you are a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a nutritious meal, this stir-fry is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

14 oz (400g) firm tofu
1 cup bell peppers (sliced, any color)
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
2-3 fresh chilies (sliced, adjust to taste)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Start by pressing the firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in paper towels 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 bowl, mix the tofu cubes with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and the cornstarch. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. This will help in achieving a crispy texture when fried.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

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 in a single layer, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you might need to do this in batches.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the tofu is cooked, add it to the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the remaining soy sauce and add the sliced chilies, tossing the mixture well to combine. Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired. This stir-fried tofu with vegetables and chili can be served on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry

For extra flavor, experiment with adding a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of chili oil to the sauce mixture.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability. Carrots, bok choy, or mushrooms work great too!
To make it even spicier, use chopped chili paste or sriracha as an additional condiment.

This Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with vegetables and chili is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy this vibrant dish any night of the week for a wholesome and invigorating meal!