How to Prepare Vegetarian Chinese Fried Rice with Tofu and Vegetables

Vegetarian Chinese fried rice is a delightful and healthy dish that can be easily prepared at home. This recipe incorporates tasty tofu and fresh vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying meal. Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious vegetarian fried rice.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of cooked jasmine or basmati rice (preferably cold)
• 1 block (about 14 ounces) of firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start 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 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

2. Cook the Tofu:
In a large non-stick pan or wok, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, approximately 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp.

4. Add the Rice:
Next, add the cold cooked rice to the pan with the vegetables. Break up any clumps and stir-fry the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the rice is heated through.

5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked tofu to the pan with the rice and vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and continue to stir-fry for another minute to ensure everything is evenly coated.

6. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is well combined and heated, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top. Give it one last gentle stir and remove from heat. Serve your vegetarian Chinese fried rice hot, either on its own or as a perfect side dish.

Tips for Perfect Vegetarian Fried Rice

• Use cold, day-old rice for better texture; fresh rice may become mushy.
• Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
• Experiment with sauces like oyster sauce (vegetarian version) or chili sauce for added flavor.
• For a more protein-rich meal, consider adding edamame or chickpeas.

This vegetarian Chinese fried rice with tofu and vegetables offers a nutritious and tasty way to enjoy a classic dish. Enjoy customizing it with your favorite ingredients and flavors!