Vegan Tofu Stir-Fry

A vegan tofu stir-fry is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile meal that’s easy to prepare. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a flavorful tofu stir-fry:

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 block of firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 carrot (julienned or thinly sliced)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-inch piece of ginger (grated or minced)
• 2 cups cooked rice or noodles (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu

• Press the Tofu: Remove excess water from the tofu by pressing it with a tofu press or wrapping it in a clean towel and placing a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes.
• Cube the Tofu: Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

2. Cook the Tofu

• Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
• Cook Tofu: Add the cubed tofu and cook until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

• Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and chili flakes (if using). Set aside.

4. Cook the Vegetables

• Heat Oil: In the same skillet or wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
• Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add Vegetables: Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, carrot, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Combine and Serve

• Add Tofu and Sauce: Return the cooked tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the tofu and vegetables.
• Thicken Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and stir well. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is well-coated.
• Serve: Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles, or enjoy on its own.

Tips for Success

• Pressing Tofu: Properly pressing the tofu ensures it absorbs flavors better and gets a nice crispy texture.
• Variety of Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn.
• Adjusting Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, maple syrup for sweetness, or vinegar for tanginess.
• Garnishes: Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor.