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For a tasty tofu stir fry, you need: - 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed - 2 tablespoons cornstarch - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 cup sugar snap peas - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated - 3 green onions, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste The extra-firm tofu gives your dish a great texture. Cornstarch helps make it crispy. Choose fresh vegetables for the best flavor. To make the peanut sauce, gather: - 1/3 cup natural peanut butter - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon maple syrup - 1 tablespoon lime juice - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon water (or more for desired consistency) This sauce adds a rich, nutty flavor. The lime juice brings a nice tang. Adjust the water to get your preferred sauce thickness. When choosing vegetables, look for these signs: - Bright colors show freshness. - Firmness means the veggies are crisp. - No brown spots or wilting. Fresh produce makes your stir fry taste better. Spend time picking the best veggies at the store. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Pat the tofu dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is key for a crispy texture. Next, toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. This will help create a nice crispy crust when frying. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Cook them until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the crispy tofu and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and sugar snap peas. Stir-fry these veggies for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be crisp-tender. In a small mixing bowl, combine all the peanut sauce ingredients. This includes the peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, sesame oil, and water. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. If you find the sauce too thick, add more water to reach your desired consistency. This sauce adds rich flavor to every bite. Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, then stir-fry for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the peanut sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat the sauce through. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your tasty tofu stir fry! To get crispy tofu, start with extra-firm tofu. Drain and press it well to remove moisture. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. Toss the cubes in cornstarch until they are fully coated. This step is key for that crunchy outside. Heat vegetable oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the tofu cubes in a single layer. Let them brown for about 8-10 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Flip them to cook all sides evenly. This method gives you that perfect crispy texture. To boost flavors, use fresh herbs and spices. Garlic and ginger add a bright kick to your stir fry. Mince the garlic finely and grate the ginger for best results. You can also add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fragrant touch. Consider using red chili flakes if you want some heat. These simple additions will enhance your dish. They bring freshness and depth, making every bite exciting. For a smooth peanut sauce, mix the ingredients well. Start with natural peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, and sesame oil in a bowl. Add water to this mix until it reaches your desired thickness. If it feels too thick, stir in more water. A thinner sauce coats the tofu and veggies better. If you want a richer flavor, use less water. Finding that perfect balance makes your stir fry more enjoyable. Pro Tips Press Tofu Well: Ensure you press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy texture during frying. Use High Heat: Cooking the tofu and vegetables over medium-high heat will give you that delicious stir-fried flavor and a nice char. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to swap out or add any of your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to make the dish your own. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the peanut sauce is too thick, gradually add more water until you reach your desired consistency for easy pouring. {{image_2}} You can swap tofu with different proteins. Tempeh is a great choice. It offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture. Chicken or shrimp works well, too. Just cook them until fully done before adding veggies. For a vegan option, use chickpeas. They add protein and fiber to your dish. Feel free to mix and match your veggies. In the spring, add asparagus or snap peas. In the fall, use butternut squash or Brussels sprouts. Seasonal veggies taste fresher and can change the dish's vibe. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. You can spice up the sauce in many ways. Add chili paste for heat or a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. Try a sesame or teriyaki sauce for a different taste. You can even use almond butter if you want a twist. Each variation will give you a unique flavor profile. To store your tofu stir fry, wait for it to cool. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the tofu and vegetables if you can. This helps keep the texture. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. When reheating, I suggest using a skillet. Heat it over medium heat and add a splash of water. This helps steam the dish. Stir often to prevent sticking. You want to keep that crispy tofu texture. Avoid using the microwave if you can; it can make everything soggy. To freeze your stir fry, pack it in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space for expansion. It will keep well for about a month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove to get it hot and crispy again. Enjoy your meal without the fuss of cooking! Yes, you can use different types of tofu. Soft or silken tofu works well in soups. However, for stir fry, extra-firm tofu is best. It holds its shape and gets crispy. If you prefer a softer texture, try firm tofu. Just know it may not crisp up as well. To make this dish gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce. Also, ensure your peanut butter is pure and free from additives. Most cornstarches are gluten-free, but check the label. This way, you enjoy all the flavor without gluten. Serve tofu stir fry in a deep bowl. This allows for a nice presentation. Drizzle extra peanut sauce on top for added flavor. Sprinkle crushed peanuts and sesame seeds for crunch. You can also serve it with rice or noodles for a hearty meal. To make the peanut sauce spicy, add chili paste or sriracha. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Adjust the spice level to your liking, and enjoy the extra kick! We’ve explored the essentials for a tasty tofu stir fry, from ingredients to cooking tips. You learned how to prepare tofu, cook veggies, and make a rich peanut sauce. Remember to choose fresh produce for the best flavor and texture. Try different proteins and sauces for unique twists. Store leftovers properly and reheat to enjoy them later. With these tips, you can create delicious meals that suit your taste and needs. Happy cooking!

Tofu Stir Fry with Peanut Sauce

A delicious and healthy stir fry featuring crispy tofu and fresh vegetables, all coated in a rich peanut sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 whole bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup sugar snap peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 whole green onions, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 third cup natural peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon water (or more for desired consistency)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and patting them dry with a paper towel.
  • Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help create a crispy exterior when frying.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and sugar snap peas. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
  • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the vegetables and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
  • Return the crispy tofu to the skillet, tossing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • In a small mixing bowl, combine all peanut sauce ingredients: peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, sesame oil, and water. Whisk until smooth. If needed, add more water for your desired sauce consistency.
  • Pour the peanut sauce over the tofu and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

Serve the stir fry in a deep bowl or plate, drizzle with extra peanut sauce if desired, and sprinkle with crushed peanuts and sesame seeds for added texture.
Keyword healthy, peanut sauce, stir fry, tofu, vegetarian