Sautéed Swiss Chard with Garlic Tofu Medley
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tibetan cuisine with this Sautéed Swiss Chard with Garlic Tofu Medley. This delightful dish combines tender Swiss chard and crispy cubes of marinated tofu, all brought together with aromatic garlic, fresh ginger, and bursts of sweetness from green peas. The contrast between the bright green chard and the golden-brown tofu not only makes this dish visually stunning but also a nutritious and satisfying option for any meal. Perfectly paired with steamed rice, this recipe makes for a quick, healthful lunch or dinner that is sure to impress.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Swiss chard
1 bunch (Washed and torn into pieces)
Green onions
2 (Chopped)
Paprika
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Garlic
3 cloves (2 cloves chopped, 1 clove minced)
Fresh ginger
1/2 inch (Chopped)
Soy sauce
2 tablespoons (N/A)
Firm tofu
4 (12 ounce) blocks (Cut into 1-inch cubes)
Green peas
1/4 cup (N/A)
Oil
2 tablespoons (For frying)
Ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (N/A)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly washing the Swiss chard, then tear it into bite-sized pieces while removing the stems.
2
In a medium frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped green onions, paprika, fresh ginger, and two cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onions become tender.
3
Stir in the soy sauce, ensuring that it evenly coats the mixture. Gently add the cubed tofu and green peas, stirring carefully to avoid breaking the tofu. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the tofu is heated through and starting to brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
4
In a separate large frying pan, heat another tablespoon of oil until very hot. Add the remaining minced garlic and ground black pepper, stirring for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
5
Carefully add the washed Swiss chard to the pan while it is still slightly damp. Toss well to coat with the oil and pepper. Cover the pan with a lid and allow it to steam for 1-2 minutes, or until the chard is wilted and tender.
6
To serve, transfer the sautéed Swiss chard to a large serving platter and gracefully pour the tofu mixture over the top, garnishing with additional green onions if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sautéed Swiss Chard with Garlic Tofu Medley?
It is a Tibetan-inspired dish that combines tender Swiss chard with a flavorful medley of sautéed tofu, green peas, garlic, and ginger.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The primary ingredients include Swiss chard, firm tofu, green peas, garlic, fresh ginger, green onions, and soy sauce.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 6 people.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian recipe that uses tofu as its primary protein source.
What type of tofu should I use?
Firm tofu is recommended because it holds its shape better when cut into cubes and sautéed.
How do I prepare the Swiss chard for this dish?
Wash the chard thoroughly, remove the stems, and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces before cooking.
Can I substitute Swiss chard with another green?
Yes, you can substitute Swiss chard with other leafy greens like spinach or kale, though cooking times may vary.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This dish features flavors and techniques characteristic of Tibetan cuisine.
How do I keep the tofu from breaking apart?
Stir the tofu gently and carefully when mixing it with the peas and soy sauce to maintain the 1-inch cube shape.
What seasonings are used to flavor the tofu?
The tofu is flavored with chopped green onions, paprika, fresh ginger, minced garlic, and soy sauce.
How long does it take to cook the tofu?
The tofu should be cooked for about 4-5 minutes until it is heated through and begins to brown.
Why is the Swiss chard cooked separately?
Cooking the chard separately allows it to steam and wilt properly without overcrowding the pan or overcooking the tofu.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served by placing the sautéed chard on a platter and pouring the garlic tofu medley over the top, ideally with steamed rice.
How much garlic is required for the recipe?
You will need 3 cloves of garlic in total: two for the tofu medley and one for the Swiss chard.
Is this a spicy dish?
The dish is mild but flavorful, containing paprika and black pepper for a subtle warmth rather than intense heat.
Can I use frozen green peas?
Yes, frozen green peas work perfectly for the medley.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
Any neutral cooking oil suitable for sautéing, such as vegetable or canola oil, will work.
How do I prepare the fresh ginger?
You should take about 1/2 inch of fresh ginger and chop it finely for the best flavor distribution.
How long does it take to steam the Swiss chard?
Once the pan is covered, the chard typically takes only 1-2 minutes to become wilted and tender.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
How many blocks of tofu are needed?
The recipe calls for 4 blocks of firm tofu, specifically 12-ounce blocks.
Is this a healthy meal option?
Yes, it is described as a nutritious and healthful recipe rich in vegetables and plant protein.
What should I do with the chard stems?
The recipe suggests removing the stems; however, you can finely chop them and sauté them earlier if you prefer not to waste them.
How much soy sauce is added?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of soy sauce to coat the tofu and peas.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is categorized as a quick and easy-to-cook meal suitable for a fast lunch or dinner.
What is the purpose of the paprika?
Paprika adds a hint of smokiness and color to the tofu mixture.
How do I prevent the chard from burning?
Add the chard to the pan while it is still slightly damp and use a lid to create steam, which helps cook it gently.
Can I add other vegetables to this medley?
Certainly! Ingredients like sliced carrots or bell peppers would complement the tofu and chard well.
What makes the dish visually appealing?
The contrast between the bright green chard, the golden-brown tofu cubes, and the vibrant green peas creates a stunning look.
Can I store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a pan.