How to Prepare Chinese-style Tofu with Snow Peas Stir-Fry
Chinese-style tofu with snow peas stir-fry is a delightful and nutritious dish that is both simple to prepare and packed with flavor. This vibrant recipe combines the subtle flavors of tofu and snow peas, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious stir-fry that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients Needed
- 14 ounces firm tofu
- 2 cups fresh snow peas
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
1. **Prepare the Tofu:** Start by draining the tofu and pressing it gently to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. **Marinate the Tofu:** In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce with a pinch of pepper. Add the cubed tofu and gently toss to coat. Allow the tofu to marinate for about 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
3. **Prep the Vegetables:** While the tofu is marinating, wash and trim the snow peas. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips and set aside with the snow peas.
4. **Stir-Frying the Tofu:** Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu cubes, cooking for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown on all sides. Carefully remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
5. **Cook the Vegetables:** In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to avoid burning. After about 30 seconds, add the sliced bell pepper and snow peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
6. **Combine Ingredients:** Return the cooked tofu to the skillet. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring gently to incorporate all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Feel free to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Serve:** Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Serve the stir-fry immediately over a bed of freshly cooked rice or noodles. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
- Use firm tofu for better texture and stability in cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the ingredients.
- Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a tablespoon of chili paste or Sriracha sauce to the mix.
Chinese-style tofu with snow peas stir-fry is not only easy to prepare but also a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences. Enjoy this wholesome and delicious meal featuring the beloved flavors of Chinese cuisine!