How to Prepare Chinese-style Tofu with Carrots Stir-Fry
Chinese-style tofu with carrots stir-fry is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any meal. Packed with protein and vitamins, this stir-fry can be prepared quickly, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Follow this simple guide to create a flavorful dish that your family will love.
Ingredients
To make Chinese-style tofu with carrots stir-fry, you will need the following ingredients:
- 14 oz firm tofu
- 2 medium carrots, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, and place something heavy on top. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This step will help the tofu absorb more flavor during cooking.
Step 2: Cut the Tofu
After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. This allows for even cooking and better integration with the vegetables.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes. Cook them until they are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are evenly cooked.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Once the tofu is golden brown, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the julienned carrots and sliced red bell pepper. Stir-fry everything together for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Season the Stir-Fry
Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the stir-fried ingredients. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry and add it to the pan. Stir everything together to combine the flavors, allowing it to cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your stir-fry with chopped green onions for added color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your delicious Chinese-style tofu with carrots stir-fry over steamed white rice or brown rice for a complete meal. You can also add some sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch.
Tips for Variation
Feel free to customize this stir-fry with your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different sauces like hoisin or oyster sauce for added flair.
Enjoy your homemade Chinese-style tofu with carrots stir-fry! It’s a wholesome dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire.