Embark on a culinary journey with this Sesame Ginger Tofu Stir Fry, a vibrant dish that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. Perfect for vegans and meat-eaters alike, this stir fry combines crispy tofu, fresh vegetables, and a zesty sesame ginger sauce that’s sure to awaken your taste buds. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients:
- 14 oz block of firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Green onions, sliced, for garnish
Directions:
- Prepare the tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add bell peppers, carrot, and broccoli. Stir fry for about 5 minutes, or until vegetables are just tender.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sugar. Pour this mixture over the vegetables in the skillet. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Combine tofu and vegetables: Return the tofu to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat with the sauce and heat through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Variations:
- Spicy Stir Fry: Add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Peanut Ginger Tofu: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles instead of traditional rice.
Serving Tips:
- Serve this stir fry over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles to make it a filling meal.
- Complement the dish with a side of miso soup or a simple Asian cucumber salad for a full meal experience.
Storage Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until thoroughly warm.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information:
- Tofu is a great source of protein and contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s also a valuable plant source of iron and calcium.
- The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dish a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Nutritional information per serving: Calories: [insert kcal]
FAQs:
Q: How can I make my tofu crispier? A: For extra crispy tofu, toss the tofu cubes in a little cornstarch before frying.
Q: Can I use different vegetables in this stir fry? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Snap peas, mushrooms, and spinach are excellent additions.
Conclusion:
This Sesame Ginger Tofu Stir Fry is not just delicious—it’s a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that caters to various dietary needs. Its bright flavors and versatile ingredients make it a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes