This simple yet satisfying stir-fry is packed with flavor and nutrients. The tofu is marinated in a savory mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper, then baked until crispy and browned. The vegetables are stir-fried until tender-crisp, and then the tofu is added back to the skillet to combine. The result is a delicious and healthy meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
This recipe was inspired by a classic Chinese stir-fry dish. I wanted to create a version that was healthy and easy to make at home, so I used extra-firm tofu as the main ingredient. Tofu is a great source of protein and fiber, and it's also very versatile. It can be marinated in a variety of flavors, and it can be cooked in a variety of ways. For this recipe, I chose to bake the tofu to give it a crispy exterior and a tender interior. The vegetables in this stir-fry are also very versatile. You can use any vegetables that you like, or that you have on hand. I used broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and onion, but you could also use snap peas, green beans, or snow peas. The key is to cook the vegetables until they are tender-crisp, so that they still have some of their crunch. This stir-fry is a great way to get a healthy and delicious meal on the table quickly and easily. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, or for a quick and easy lunch.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1/2 cup chopped onion
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
In a medium bowl, combine the tofu, soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
Spread the tofu on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and onion to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
Add the baked tofu to the skillet and stir to combine.
Serve immediately.
Why It Works
The cornstarch in the marinade helps to create a crispy exterior on the tofu.
Baking the tofu before stir-frying it helps to ensure that it cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Stir-frying the vegetables over high heat helps to retain their鮮味 (umami) and nutrients.
Adding the tofu back to the skillet at the end of the cooking process helps to ensure that it stays crispy.