How to Prepare Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu and Carrots with Garlic
Chinese-style stir-fried tofu and carrots with garlic is a delicious and nutritious dish that can easily be prepared at home. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and is packed with flavor. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make this delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 2 medium carrots
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the tofu absorb more flavor during cooking.
Step 2: Cut the Ingredients
Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes. Next, wash the carrots and slice them into thin, diagonal pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely to release their aromatic flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Tofu
In a bowl, toss the cubed tofu with soy sauce, a pinch of salt, pepper, and cornstarch until evenly coated. The cornstarch will help create a crispy texture during frying.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Tofu
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu cubes. Fry them until they are golden and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 5: Cook the Carrots and Garlic
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Add the sliced carrots and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crunch. Next, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Combine and Finalize
Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the carrots and garlic. Drizzle sesame oil over the mixture (if using) and toss everything together. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer the stir-fried tofu and carrots to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions for an added touch of flavor and crunch. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
- For added flavor, consider marinating the tofu for a few hours or overnight.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for more color and nutrients.
- Adjust the soy sauce quantity according to your taste preferences, keeping in mind it adds saltiness.
Enjoy this simple and tasty Chinese-style stir-fried tofu and carrots with garlic as a wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!