Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that won’t leave you feeling heavy? This vegetarian stir-fry with tofu is your answer! It’s colorful, packed with fresh vegetables, and full of delightful flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to an Asian-inspired feast.
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something nutritious and delicious on the table in no time. With a variety of vibrant veggies and protein-rich tofu, it’s a well-rounded meal that even non-vegetarians will love.
Not only is this stir-fry simple to prepare, but it also allows you to get creative with your favorite vegetables. Whether you prefer crunchy bell peppers, tender broccoli, or snap peas, you can customize it to your liking!
Colorful Ingredients for a Wholesome Dish
The star of this vegetarian stir-fry is undeniably the crispy tofu. It serves as a protein-rich base that complements the vibrant array of vegetables. Using firm tofu, which holds its shape well during cooking, ensures you get that satisfying texture in every bite.
Next, the selection of vegetables plays a crucial role in not only the taste but also the visual appeal of the dish. Fresh broccoli florets add a delightful crunch, while sliced red bell peppers and julienned carrots provide sweetness and color. Incorporating snap peas brings an additional layer of crispness that enhances the overall texture.
Preparation Tips for Tofu
Preparing the tofu correctly is essential to achieve that golden-brown, crispy exterior. Start by draining the tofu and cubing it, then toss it with soy sauce and cornstarch. This step not only infuses flavor but also helps create a crispy coating during cooking.
Cooking the tofu in a hot skillet ensures that it develops a beautiful crust. Using vegetable oil allows for even frying, contributing to that delightful crunch. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, turning the cubes until all sides are golden.
Stir-Frying the Vegetables
The next step is to stir-fry the vegetables, which brings them to life. Utilizing a hot pan is key to maintaining that tender-crisp texture. Start with aromatic garlic and ginger to build a flavorful foundation before adding the vegetables.
Adding the bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots into the pan creates a colorful medley that’s both nutritious and visually appealing. Stir-frying for just a few minutes ensures they remain vibrant and slightly crisp, retaining their fresh taste.
Bringing It All Together
Once the vegetables are perfectly cooked, it’s time to combine all the elements. Return the crispy tofu to the pan and pour in your choice of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce. This will tie together the flavors and add a savory glaze to the entire dish.
Stir everything together carefully, allowing the sauce to coat the tofu and vegetables evenly. A couple of additional minutes of cooking will meld the flavors beautifully, ensuring that each bite is rich and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
When it comes to serving this vibrant stir-fry, fluffy white rice or noodles make excellent accompaniments. They not only provide a neutral base but also soak up the delicious sauce, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
For a touch of elegance, garnish the dish with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions. This not only adds a pop of flavor but also enhances the dish’s visual appeal, making it as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Enjoying Your Vegetarian Stir-Fry
This vegetarian stir-fry is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to satisfy your cravings while providing a nutritious option for dinner. Share it with family or friends, and watch as everyone marvels at the vibrant colors on their plates.
Feel free to customize the dish based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. The versatility of this stir-fry allows for endless possibilities, making it a delightful addition to your dinner rotation.
Easy and Flavorful Vegetarian Stir-Fry
This vegetarian stir-fry features crispy tofu, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sauce that brings everything together in a delightful medley of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also offers a burst of freshness with each bite.
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce or hoisin sauce (vegetarian option)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: In a bowl, toss cubed tofu with soy sauce and cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
- Cook the Tofu: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds. Then add the bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked tofu to the pan and pour in the oyster or hoisin sauce. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
