Tofu and Vegetables Stir-Fry Recipe

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 large carrot, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated. This will give the tofu a deliciously crispy texture.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the sesame oil. Once heated, add the garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Add the bell peppers, snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and vibrant in color.

5. Return the tofu to the skillet. Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together to coat the tofu and vegetables evenly.

6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

7. Garnish with chopped green onion and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

If you’re a beginner, remember that high heat and continuous stirring are key to a successful stir-fry. For a variation, try adding mushrooms, broccoli, or your favorite vegetables. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

For storage, you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Ingredient substitutions are simple – use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option, or maple syrup in place of hoisin sauce for a touch of sweetness.

Pairings

This Tofu and Vegetables Stir-Fry pairs beautifully with a side of jasmine rice or quinoa. For a refreshing beverage, consider serving it with iced green tea or a light white wine.