The first time I made the Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu, it was a delightful surprise for the whole family. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables, combined with the savory tofu and the aroma of sesame oil, created a dish that was both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. My kids, who are usually quite picky about their greens, devoured their portions with enthusiasm and even asked for seconds. My partner, who tends to favor meat-based dishes, was pleasantly surprised by the depth of flavor and the satisfying texture of the tofu. This recipe has since become a staple in our household, offering a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 block (14 ounces) of firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup of broccoli florets
- 1 cup of snap peas
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare the Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu:
- Prepare the tofu: Start by cutting the tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, mix the tofu with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce to marinate. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
- Cook the tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and sesame oil. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine tofu and sauce: Return the tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tofu is heated through and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy it hot with your favorite side of rice or noodles.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, with each serving containing roughly 250 calories. It’s a nutritious option packed with vegetables and protein, making it a perfect meal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Preparation Time
The total preparation and cooking time for this Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu is approximately 30 minutes. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you need to prepare a quick and healthy dinner.
How to Serve
Here are a few suggestions on how to serve this dish:
- Over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice for a classic pairing.
- With a side of quinoa for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
- Alongside rice noodles or soba noodles for a different texture.
- As a filling for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- With a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil for those who prefer a spicy kick.
Additional Tips
Enhance your Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu with these additional tips:
- Press the tofu: Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispier texture when cooking.
- Cut vegetables evenly: Try to cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Use a hot pan: Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the tofu or vegetables to achieve a good sear.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your preference or what’s in season.
- Pre-mix the sauce: Pre-mix the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to streamline the cooking process.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu:
Q: Can I use other types of tofu?
A: Yes, you can use soft or silken tofu for a different texture, but firm or extra-firm tofu is recommended for the best results in this stir-fry.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure the hoisin sauce is also gluten-free.
Q: Can I add meat to this dish?
A: Absolutely! You can add chicken, beef, or shrimp to the stir-fry. Just cook the meat separately before adding it to the vegetables and sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
Q: What can I do if the stir-fry is too salty?
A: If the stir-fry turns out too salty, add a splash of water or a bit more rice vinegar to balance the flavors.