Scrumptious and Healthy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients

1 block (14-16 ounces) of firm tofu
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Steps and instructions

Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. You can do this by wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and placing it under a heavy object for about 15-20 minutes.
Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into cubes and toss it with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until it's fully coated.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium to high heat. Add the tofu and fry until it's golden and crispy on all sides. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Once it's done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the bell peppers, carrots, and onion to the skillet and stir-fry them over high heat until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for another minute.
While the vegetables are cooking, make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch until well combined.
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the tofu back into the skillet and pour the sauce over the top. Stir everything together and let it cook for a few more minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Finish the dish by garnishing it with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Tools for making

Skillet or wok - A large, deep pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, perfect for stir-frying.
Kitchen towel - A clean towel used for pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture.
Whisk - A utensil used for mixing and combining ingredients, particularly for making the sauce.
Cutting board - A flat surface used for cutting and preparing the vegetables.
Knife - A sharp tool used for slicing and chopping the vegetables and tofu.
Small bowl - A container used for whisking and combining the sauce ingredients.
Kitchen tongs or spatula - Utensils used for flipping and stirring the tofu and vegetables during cooking.

Recipe variations

Use different vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
Experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce.
Add your favorite spices or herbs like chili flakes, garlic powder, or cilantro.
Try using different types of tofu like silken tofu or smoked tofu.
Make it spicy by adding sriracha or red pepper flakes.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
Make it a protein-packed stir-fry by adding edamame or chickpeas.
If you prefer a meaty texture, substitute the tofu with seitan or tempeh.
Add a crunchy element by topping the stir-fry with chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews.
For a sweeter twist, add pineapple chunks or a drizzle of honey to the stir-fry.

Recipe overview

Indulge in a healthy and flavorful meal with this Tofu Stir Fry recipe. This dish features crispy tofu and a vibrant mix of vegetables, all coated in a mouthwatering savory sauce. You'll love the combination of textures and flavors, from the firm tofu and crunchy veggies to the rich, tangy sauce that ties everything together. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option. Simple to make yet satisfying, this Tofu Stir Fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of tofu?
Yes, you can use any type of tofu you prefer, but firm tofu works best for stir fry as it holds its shape better.
Do I need to press the tofu?
Pressing the tofu helps remove excess moisture, resulting in crispier tofu. It is recommended but not mandatory.
Can I use a different combination of vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the stir fry by adding or substituting vegetables according to your taste and preference.
Is there a substitute for cornstarch?
If you don't have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or potato starch as a substitute in equal amounts.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
How can I make the dish spicier?
If you prefer a spicier stir fry, you can add some red pepper flakes, sriracha sauce, or chili paste to the sauce mixture.
Can I make the tofu ahead of time?
While it's best to serve the tofu stir fry immediately for optimal texture, you can cook the tofu in advance and reheat it in the skillet before adding the vegetables and sauce.
What can I serve with tofu stir fry?
Tofu stir fry pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Serving dishes and utensils

Skillet or wok - A large skillet or wok is ideal for stir-frying the tofu and vegetables.
Kitchen towel - A clean kitchen towel is useful for pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture.
Cutting board - A cutting board is necessary for chopping the vegetables and tofu.
Knife - A sharp knife is needed for cutting the tofu and vegetables into desired shapes and sizes.
Whisk - A whisk is handy for easily combining the ingredients of the sauce.
Small bowl - A small bowl is needed for whisking together the sauce ingredients.
Spatula or tongs - A spatula or tongs are useful for stirring and flipping the tofu and vegetables while cooking.

Origin stories

Stir frying, the cooking method used in this recipe, has its roots deeply planted in the ancient culinary tradition of China. The technique was first recorded as early as the Han dynasty, but it was during the Ming dynasty that stir frying became popular. The advantage of this cooking method lies in its speedy preparation and the ability to retain the vibrant colors and nutrients of the food, which aligns with the Chinese philosophical tradition of balancing health and taste. Interestingly, tofu, another key element of our recipe, was invented almost 2000 years ago during the Han dynasty by Liu An, a Chinese prince. He discovered tofu while attempting to create an elixir of immortality. And while tofu may not grant immortality, it's an indispensable part of Chinese cuisine and a great source of protein. So while you're enjoying your Tofu Stir Fry, remember, you're partaking in a culinary tradition that stretches back thousands of years.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.