Flavor-Packed Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Crunchy Greens
Dive into this vibrant and nutritious stir-fry that masterfully combines the chewy texture of pan-fried tofu with the crispness of bok choy or baby broccoli. Inspired by a healthy recipe, this dish balances simple, fresh flavors with a touch of heat from Asian chili paste and fragrant ginger. The tofu is complemented by sweet red bell pepper and aromatic scallions, creating a colorful dish that’s as delicious as it is good for you. Served over a bed of fluffy quinoa, rice, or noodles, this meal is not only a quick and easy weeknight option but also a crowd-pleaser for any health-conscious diner. The extra seasoning at the table allows everyone to customize their experience, ensuring that every bite is just right. Get ready for a culinary adventure that champions healthy eating while never skimping on taste!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
firm tofu
1 lb (thoroughly patted dry and cut into pieces 1/2 inch thick and 1 inch long)
canola oil or peanut oil
2 tablespoons (divided)
red bell pepper
1 (seeded and cut into thin strips)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
fresh ginger
1 tablespoon (minced)
scallions
4 (white and light green parts chopped, dark green parts separated, chopped)
bok choy or baby broccoli
1 lb (chopped into stir-fry sized pieces)
soy sauce
2 tablespoons
Asian chili paste
1 teaspoon (such as sambal oelek)
salt
water
1/4 cup
toasted sesame seeds
1 tablespoon (optional)
Instructions
1
Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into ½-inch thick and 1-inch long pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2
Add the tofu pieces to the hot pan and stir-fry until they are lightly golden and crisp on the edges. Remove the tofu from the pan and let it drain on paper towels to absorb any extra oil. Optionally, sprinkle with kosher salt for added flavor.
3
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and toss in the sliced red bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until it begins to soften.
4
Next, add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white and light green parts of the scallions to the pan. Stir-fry for about 15 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
5
Incorporate the chopped bok choy or baby broccoli into the mixture, stirring continuously for approximately 1 minute until it is well coated with oil and starts to wilt.
6
Add ¼ cup of water to the pan and continue to cook, occasionally stirring, until the water evaporates (about 2–3 minutes). If needed, drain any excess water.
7
When the water is evaporated, stir in the cooked tofu, soy sauce, and chili paste, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated and heated through.
8
Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and sprinkle with the green parts of the scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
9
Serve over your choice of quinoa, rice, or noodles, with extra soy sauce and hot sauce on the side for individual seasoning.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The main protein used in this stir-fry is 1 lb of firm tofu.
Is this Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses tofu and plant-based ingredients.
What vegetables can I use for the 'crunchy greens' component?
You can use either chopped bok choy or baby broccoli for the crunchy greens.
How should the tofu be prepared before cooking?
The tofu should be pressed to remove excess moisture, patted dry, and cut into pieces 1/2 inch thick and 1 inch long.
What type of oil is best for stir-frying this dish?
Canola oil or peanut oil are recommended for this recipe.
How do I make the tofu crispy?
Stir-fry the tofu pieces in a hot skillet with oil until they are lightly golden and crisp on the edges.
What aromatics are used in this stir-fry?
The aromatics include minced garlic, minced fresh ginger, and the white and light green parts of scallions.
What kind of chili paste should I use?
The recipe suggests using an Asian chili paste such as sambal oelek.
How long should I cook the red bell peppers?
The red bell peppers should be stir-fried for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Why is water added to the pan during cooking?
Water is added to help steam and wilt the greens like bok choy or baby broccoli.
How much water is needed for steaming the vegetables?
You should add 1/4 cup of water to the pan.
What should I serve this stir-fry over?
This dish is delicious served over a bed of fluffy quinoa, rice, or noodles.
How should I garnish the finished dish?
Garnish with the reserved dark green parts of the scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
Can I adjust the spiciness of this meal?
Yes, you can customize the heat by adding more or less chili paste or serving with extra hot sauce on the side.
How many garlic cloves are required?
The recipe calls for 2 minced garlic cloves.
What is the purpose of draining the tofu on paper towels?
Draining on paper towels helps absorb any extra oil from the pan-frying process.
Should I use fresh or ground ginger?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 tablespoon of minced fresh ginger.
How do I prepare the scallions?
Chop the white and light green parts to cook, and separate the dark green parts for garnishing.
Can I use a regular skillet if I don't have a wok?
Yes, a large nonstick skillet works perfectly for this recipe.
How long does the final flavor-melding step take?
Once all ingredients are combined, cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, it is designed to be a quick and easy weeknight option.
What size should the bok choy or broccoli be?
The greens should be chopped into stir-fry sized pieces.
Is sesame oil used in this recipe?
No, the recipe uses canola or peanut oil for cooking and toasted sesame seeds for garnish.
How much soy sauce is included?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of soy sauce.
What should I do if there is excess water after cooking the greens?
If needed, you should drain any excess water before adding the tofu and sauces.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Yes, the use of a full pound of firm tofu makes this a high-protein vegan meal.
What type of bell pepper is recommended?
The recipe calls for one red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin strips.
Can I add extra salt to the dish?
Yes, you can optionally sprinkle the fried tofu with kosher salt for added flavor.
Are the sesame seeds necessary?
The toasted sesame seeds are optional but recommended for added texture and flavor.
What makes this stir-fry 'spicy'?
The heat comes from the addition of one teaspoon of Asian chili paste.