Looking for a vibrant and spicy dish that’s also vegan? This Spicy Szechuan Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry is the answer! Bursting with flavor and loaded with nutritious veggies, it’s a perfect quick meal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a tofu lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe will deliver a satisfying kick to your taste buds.
Imagine crisp vegetables and golden, pan-fried tofu, all coated in a spicy and tangy Szechuan sauce. It’s not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about enjoying a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Wholesome Dish
This Spicy Szechuan Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry showcases a delightful array of ingredients that contribute to its vibrant appearance and bold flavor profile.
The foundation of the dish is firm tofu, which, when pressed and fried to a golden crisp, offers a satisfying texture. Bright red and yellow bell peppers add a splash of color, while fresh broccoli florets provide a nutritious crunch.
A few key aromatics—garlic and ginger—elevate the stir-fry, delivering aromatic warmth that complements the dish’s spice. The blend of sauces, including soy, Szechuan, and sesame oil, create an engaging flavor that dances on the palate.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Tofu
Achieving crispy tofu is crucial for this dish. The process begins by draining and pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. This step is essential for creating that coveted golden crust during frying.
Once prepared, the tofu is cooked in a hot skillet with vegetable oil, allowing it to develop a crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. This technique ensures every bite of tofu is satisfying and full of flavor.
Creating the Perfect Stir-Fry
The magic of this dish lies in the quick cooking of the vegetables. After frying the tofu, the same skillet is used to gently sauté the minced garlic and ginger until fragrant. This infuses the oil with their natural aromas, setting the stage for the colorful vegetables.
Adding the sliced bell peppers and broccoli, the vegetables are cooked until just tender, preserving their vibrant colors and crunch. This timing is key, as it prevents the veggies from becoming too soft while still allowing them to soak up the rich sauce.
Bringing It All Together
After the vegetables have sautéed to perfection, the crispy tofu is added back into the mix. A careful combination of sauces is then poured over the stir-fry, ensuring even coating across all ingredients.
With a quick toss, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly appetizing. The final step involves a brief cook to heat everything through, making every component harmonious.
Garnishing for Presentation
The finishing touch involves garnishing the stir-fry with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile with a nutty crunch and fresh notes.
Serving the stir-fry over a fluffy bed of white rice creates a complete meal that is comforting and nourishing. The contrast of textures—from the crispy tofu to the tender vegetables—makes every bite an enjoyable experience.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This dish can easily be adjusted to suit different preferences. For those who enjoy their meals with a bit more heat, additional chili flakes can be added during cooking.
Substituting other vegetables, such as snap peas or carrots, can also create a unique twist on this classic recipe. Whether enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger spread, this Spicy Szechuan Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry is sure to impress.
Easy and Flavorful Vegan Stir-Fry
This stir-fry features crispy tofu, colorful bell peppers, and vibrant broccoli, all tossed in a spicy Szechuan sauce. The combination of textures and the bold flavors make every bite a delicious experience, perfect for anyone craving a bit of heat.
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Cut the tofu into cubes and press to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispy texture when frying.
- Cook the Tofu: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Then add the sliced bell peppers and broccoli, cooking until just tender.
- Combine and Sauce: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, Szechuan sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Pour over the stir-fry, tossing to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
