How to Prepare Chinese-style Stir-Fried Tofu with Green Beans and Garlic
Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with green beans and garlic is a delicious and nutritious dish that can easily be prepared at home. This recipe combines crispy tofu, fresh green beans, and aromatic garlic, all stir-fried together to create a delightful meal. Follow these simple steps to prepare this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
- 1 block of firm tofu (14 oz), drained and pressed
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for a vegetarian version)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Tofu
Begin by preparing the tofu. Drain the block of tofu and gently press it between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Once drained, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Cooking the Tofu
In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu to the skillet and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Stir-Frying the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the fresh green beans and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they start to tenderize but remain crisp. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Once the green beans are cooked, return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and toss everything together gently. Stir-fry the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the stir-fry is well-combined, drizzle with sesame oil for added flavor. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the stir-fried tofu and green beans to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this flavorful Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with steamed jasmine rice or noodles. It makes for a satisfying vegetarian main dish or can be enjoyed as a side alongside grilled chicken or beef. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein and nutrients, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Conclusion
Preparing Chinese-style stir-fried tofu with green beans and garlic is an easy and rewarding experience that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your dining table. Enjoy this simple recipe as a healthy meal option or as part of a larger spread for family and friends. Happy cooking!