How to Prepare Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Bok Choy and Carrots

Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with bok choy and carrots is a healthy, delicious dish that embodies the vibrant flavors and textures of Asian cuisine. This recipe is not only simple to prepare, but it also offers a perfect balance of protein and vegetables, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Follow this guide to create a mouthwatering tofu stir-fry that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients Needed

1 block of firm tofu
2 cups of bok choy, chopped
1 cup of carrots, julienned
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
3 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu

Start by draining the tofu. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Press the tofu gently for about 15 minutes to ensure it’s firm and well-pressed. Once done, cut the tofu into cubes.

2. Cook the Tofu

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, approximately 8–10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the julienned carrots and cook for approximately 3 minutes until they start to soften.

Add the chopped bok choy to the skillet and continue to stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the bok choy is bright green and tender.

4. Combine Tofu and Sauce

Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring everything together until the tofu is well-coated and heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well-mixed and heated, transfer your stir-fried tofu and vegetables to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and flavor. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Stir-Fried Tofu

Choose the Right Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for stir-frying since it holds its shape and texture.
Prep Ahead: You can prep all your ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process quick and efficient.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making a large batch, consider cooking in multiple batches to ensure the tofu and vegetables get nicely browned.

Enjoy your homemade Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with bok choy and carrots! This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. The vibrant colors and textures will make it a hit at any dining table.