Tofu Stir-Fry With Mixed Vegetables

Introduction

Tofu Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the protein-rich benefits of tofu with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising on taste. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delicious dish.

Ingredients

• 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup of broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup of snap peas
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial as it helps the tofu absorb flavors better and achieve a crispy texture when cooked. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. Marinate the Tofu: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let the tofu marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance its flavor.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the tofu is marinating, wash and prepare the vegetables. Slice the red bell pepper, julienne the carrot, and cut the broccoli into small florets. Having the vegetables ready will make the stir-frying process quick and efficient.
4. Cook the Tofu: Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu cubes and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and snap peas. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together to combine and heat through. Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Conclusion

This Tofu Stir-Fry with Mixed Vegetables is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The combination of tofu and a variety of colorful vegetables makes it a perfect meal for those seeking a balanced diet. Enjoy this dish on its own or pair it with brown rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.