How to Make Vietnamese Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Vietnamese Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a delicious and healthy dish that showcases the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients of Vietnamese cuisine. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful stir-fry!
Ingredients
To create a flavorful Vietnamese tofu and vegetable stir-fry, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu
In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked tofu to the pan with the vegetables. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix everything well to ensure the tofu and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. Allow cooking for another 2 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the stir-fry from heat. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve the Vietnamese tofu and vegetable stir-fry over cooked jasmine rice or toss it with rice noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
To ensure your stir-fry turns out perfectly, consider these tips:
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the tofu in soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- To achieve a nice char on the veggies, avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Add a splash of lime juice before serving for a zesty touch.
This Vietnamese Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with fresh ingredients and rich flavors that’s sure to please anyone’s palate. Enjoy this delightful dish any day of the week for a quick and healthy dinner option!