If you're seeking a quick, vibrant, and satisfying meal, this Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu is your answer. Packed with colorful veggies and a savory sauce, it's perfect for any night of the week. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you'll find this dish both fun and rewarding to make.
Extra-firm tofu adds a hearty, protein-packed element to the dish. By pressing and browning it, you ensure a satisfying texture. The vegetable oil helps in achieving that perfect golden crust on the tofu. Broccoli florets, red bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot bring color, crunch, and a host of nutrients. Garlic and fresh ginger add a punch of flavor that elevates the dish. The sauce, made with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil, ties everything together with a rich umami taste. Cornstarch thickens the sauce to coat the ingredients beautifully. Finally, sesame seeds and green onions provide a fresh and nutty finish.
This stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a bowl of soba noodles. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad with a ginger dressing for a complete meal. A light, fruity white wine or a chilled sake would complement the flavors nicely.
Start by pressing the extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture. This step is essential to achieve a nice, crispy texture when frying. Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes. Next, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook them until they're golden brown on all sides, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining oil. Toss in the broccoli florets, red bell pepper slices, snap peas, and julienned carrot. Stir-fry these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they are crisp-tender. You want them to retain a bit of bite and their vibrant colors.
Now, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the mix, sautéing for just a minute. You'll notice the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen! In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Pour this sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine with the veggies.
Return the tofu to the skillet, tossing everything to coat well in the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened. Finish by sprinkling with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve this delightful stir-fry immediately over cooked rice or noodles.
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