Craving a quick, delicious, and healthy meal that'll transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Chinese cuisine? Look no further than this mouthwatering Home Style Tofu Stir Fry that promises to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine! In just 35 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, protein-packed dish that's not only incredibly tasty but also loaded with colorful vegetables that'll make your plate (and your body) sing with joy.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients. Drain the block of firm tofu and press it gently to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
- Wash and chop the mixed vegetables. If using bell peppers, remove the seeds and slice them into strips. Cut the broccoli into small florets and slice the carrots into thin rounds or matchsticks.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cubed tofu to the pan. Allow the tofu to cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until it is golden brown on one side.
- Using a spatula, gently turn the tofu cubes to brown them on all sides. This should take an additional 5-7 minutes. Once the tofu is crispy and golden, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp. You can add a splash of water if needed to help steam the vegetables.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, return the browned tofu to the skillet. Pour in the 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Season the stir-fry with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure even seasoning.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the tofu stir-fry hot, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips
- Press your tofu thoroughly before cooking to ensure a crispy, golden exterior. Use a tofu press or wrap in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes.
- For maximum flavor, use high heat and don't overcrowd your pan. This ensures your tofu gets that perfect golden-brown crispiness and your vegetables remain crisp and vibrant.
- Customize your stir-fry by experimenting with different vegetables. Snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms can add exciting texture and flavor variations.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or rice vinegar in the final moments of cooking.
- If you prefer a saucier stir-fry, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with your soy sauce to create a slightly thickened coating that clings beautifully to the tofu and vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
