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Lisa Dishes

Chili Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry Flavorful and Easy Meal

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- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 green bell pepper, sliced - 1 medium carrot, julienned - 1 cup snap peas - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 inch ginger, grated - 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari - 1-2 tablespoons chili paste - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 1 teaspoon sugar - 2 green onions, chopped - Sesame seeds When I make this dish, I love using firm tofu. It holds its shape well. Pressing the tofu helps remove extra moisture. This step makes the tofu crispier. The colorful veggies add great flavor and texture. Red and green bell peppers bring sweetness and crunch. Carrots add a nice bite, and snap peas give freshness. I always use fresh garlic and ginger. They create a strong, tasty base. The garlic gives a warm flavor, while ginger adds a zesty kick. For the sauce, I choose soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Chili paste gives the dish heat, so adjust it to your taste. Sesame oil adds richness, and a bit of sugar balances the flavors. Finally, I sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. They add a pop of color and extra crunch. This dish not only looks good, but it also tastes amazing! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, you need to press the tofu. This step removes extra moisture, which helps the tofu to fry better. Place the tofu block between two plates and add some weight on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. This size helps the tofu cook evenly and absorb flavors. Next, heat one tablespoon of sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok. Use medium-high heat for best results. Add the cubed tofu and stir-fry for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the tofu to turn a nice golden brown on all sides. This gives it a tasty texture. Once done, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Now, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until you smell the lovely aroma. Then, add sliced red and green bell peppers, julienned carrot, and snap peas to the pan. Cook the vegetables for about 3 to 4 minutes. They should be tender but still crisp. Now, return the crispy tofu to the pan. Pour in soy sauce, chili paste, and sugar. Stir everything well so that the flavors mix nicely. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through. This final step makes the dish so flavorful and colorful. To get the best tofu, press it for at least 15 minutes. Use a clean towel. Place something heavy on top, like a cast-iron pan. This removes extra moisture, giving you a firm texture. For great crispy tofu, heat your pan well. Use medium-high heat and add sesame oil. Sauté the tofu until it's golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This makes it crunchy and adds flavor. If you like heat, use more chili paste. Start with 1 tablespoon and taste. You can always add more if you want it spicier. For a milder dish, use less chili paste. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat. Sweetness helps bring out the flavors without making it too spicy. Fresh veggies make your stir-fry taste better. Choose bright, firm vegetables. Look for bell peppers that are shiny and firm. For snap peas, pick ones that are crisp and green. Also, use high-quality soy sauce or tamari. Good sauce boosts flavor and makes your dish shine. Pro Tips Press Tofu Well: Make sure to press the tofu for at least 15-30 minutes to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps achieve a better texture when stir-frying. Customize Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your heat preference. Start with less, as you can always add more later. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Garnish for Flavor: Don't skip the green onions and sesame seeds! They add a fresh crunch and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. {{image_2}} You can switch tofu for tempeh or seitan. Both options provide a great texture. Tempeh has a nutty flavor and is high in protein. Seitan mimics meat and works well in stir-fries. If you want meat, add chicken or shrimp. Just cook them until they're done before adding veggies. This way, you keep everything tasty and fresh. Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli taste great in this dish. You can also add greens like spinach or bok choy. These greens cook quickly and add nutrition. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a nice, vibrant touch. You can mix up the flavors by using different sauces. Try hoisin or oyster sauce for a sweet touch. Adjust the garlic and ginger levels for unique tastes. If you love garlic, add more! For a hint of sweetness, increase the sugar. Experimenting with flavors makes this dish your own. Store any leftovers in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep the stir-fry fresh. This way, your meal stays tasty for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps avoid moisture buildup, which can ruin the texture. Yes, you can freeze the stir-fry! For best results, freeze it in individual portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date to track freshness. When freezing, avoid adding garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds. Add those when you reheat. You can reheat your stir-fry in two ways: the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place it in a bowl and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts to prevent it from getting soggy. Stir it halfway through for even warming. For the stovetop, heat a little oil in a pan. Add the stir-fry and cook over medium heat. Stir often until hot. This method helps keep the tofu crispy and veggies tender. Enjoy your flavorful meal again! You can pair this dish with: - Steamed rice - Fried rice - Noodles - Quinoa - Cauliflower rice Each option adds a nice base and absorbs the tasty sauce. Yes! This dish is vegan by nature. All the ingredients are plant-based. Tofu, vegetables, and sauces fit perfectly into a vegan diet. You can enjoy this meal without worry. To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Check other ingredients for gluten, too. Fresh vegetables and tofu are naturally gluten-free as well. In this blog, we explored making a tasty chili garlic tofu stir-fry. We covered the main ingredients like firm tofu and fresh veggies. You learned the step-by-step process, tips for perfect texture, and options for variations. In conclusion, this dish is simple yet delicious. Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own. Have fun cooking!

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Are you ready to whip up a meal that’s both spicy and satisfying? My Chili Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry is an easy dish that bursts with flavor and color. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple steps, you’ll create a meal your whole family will love. Let’s dive into the delicious world of tofu, vibrant veggies, and the punch of garlic and chili that makes this dish unforgettable!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This stir-fry can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, ginger, and chili brings a vibrant flavor that excites the palate.
  3. Nutritious: With a variety of vegetables and protein-rich tofu, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat level and swap out vegetables based on your preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced

– 1 green bell pepper, sliced

– 1 medium carrot, julienned

– 1 cup snap peas

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 inch ginger, grated

Seasonings and Sauces

– 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari

– 1-2 tablespoons chili paste

– 2 tablespoons sesame oil

– 1 teaspoon sugar

Optional Garnishes

– 2 green onions, chopped

– Sesame seeds

When I make this dish, I love using firm tofu. It holds its shape well. Pressing the tofu helps remove extra moisture. This step makes the tofu crispier.

The colorful veggies add great flavor and texture. Red and green bell peppers bring sweetness and crunch. Carrots add a nice bite, and snap peas give freshness.

I always use fresh garlic and ginger. They create a strong, tasty base. The garlic gives a warm flavor, while ginger adds a zesty kick.

For the sauce, I choose soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Chili paste gives the dish heat, so adjust it to your taste. Sesame oil adds richness, and a bit of sugar balances the flavors.

Finally, I sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. They add a pop of color and extra crunch. This dish not only looks good, but it also tastes amazing!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Tofu

To start, you need to press the tofu. This step removes extra moisture, which helps the tofu to fry better. Place the tofu block between two plates and add some weight on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. This size helps the tofu cook evenly and absorb flavors.

Cooking the Tofu

Next, heat one tablespoon of sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok. Use medium-high heat for best results. Add the cubed tofu and stir-fry for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the tofu to turn a nice golden brown on all sides. This gives it a tasty texture. Once done, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.

Stir-Frying and Combining

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Now, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until you smell the lovely aroma. Then, add sliced red and green bell peppers, julienned carrot, and snap peas to the pan. Cook the vegetables for about 3 to 4 minutes. They should be tender but still crisp.

Now, return the crispy tofu to the pan. Pour in soy sauce, chili paste, and sugar. Stir everything well so that the flavors mix nicely. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through. This final step makes the dish so flavorful and colorful.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Tofu Texture

To get the best tofu, press it for at least 15 minutes. Use a clean towel. Place something heavy on top, like a cast-iron pan. This removes extra moisture, giving you a firm texture. For great crispy tofu, heat your pan well. Use medium-high heat and add sesame oil. Sauté the tofu until it’s golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This makes it crunchy and adds flavor.

Adjusting Spice Level

If you like heat, use more chili paste. Start with 1 tablespoon and taste. You can always add more if you want it spicier. For a milder dish, use less chili paste. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat. Sweetness helps bring out the flavors without making it too spicy.

Choosing Fresh Ingredients

Fresh veggies make your stir-fry taste better. Choose bright, firm vegetables. Look for bell peppers that are shiny and firm. For snap peas, pick ones that are crisp and green. Also, use high-quality soy sauce or tamari. Good sauce boosts flavor and makes your dish shine.

Pro Tips

  1. Press Tofu Well: Make sure to press the tofu for at least 15-30 minutes to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps achieve a better texture when stir-frying.
  2. Customize Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your heat preference. Start with less, as you can always add more later.
  3. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
  4. Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the green onions and sesame seeds! They add a fresh crunch and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can switch tofu for tempeh or seitan. Both options provide a great texture. Tempeh has a nutty flavor and is high in protein. Seitan mimics meat and works well in stir-fries. If you want meat, add chicken or shrimp. Just cook them until they’re done before adding veggies. This way, you keep everything tasty and fresh.

Vegetable Swaps

Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli taste great in this dish. You can also add greens like spinach or bok choy. These greens cook quickly and add nutrition. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a nice, vibrant touch.

Different Flavor Profiles

You can mix up the flavors by using different sauces. Try hoisin or oyster sauce for a sweet touch. Adjust the garlic and ginger levels for unique tastes. If you love garlic, add more! For a hint of sweetness, increase the sugar. Experimenting with flavors makes this dish your own.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store any leftovers in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep the stir-fry fresh. This way, your meal stays tasty for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps avoid moisture buildup, which can ruin the texture.

Freezing Instructions

Yes, you can freeze the stir-fry! For best results, freeze it in individual portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date to track freshness. When freezing, avoid adding garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds. Add those when you reheat.

Reheating Tips

You can reheat your stir-fry in two ways: the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place it in a bowl and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts to prevent it from getting soggy. Stir it halfway through for even warming.

For the stovetop, heat a little oil in a pan. Add the stir-fry and cook over medium heat. Stir often until hot. This method helps keep the tofu crispy and veggies tender. Enjoy your flavorful meal again!

FAQs

What can I serve with Chili Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry?

You can pair this dish with:

– Steamed rice

– Fried rice

– Noodles

– Quinoa

– Cauliflower rice

Each option adds a nice base and absorbs the tasty sauce.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This dish is vegan by nature. All the ingredients are plant-based. Tofu, vegetables, and sauces fit perfectly into a vegan diet. You can enjoy this meal without worry.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Check other ingredients for gluten, too. Fresh vegetables and tofu are naturally gluten-free as well.

In this blog, we explored making a tasty chili garlic tofu stir-fry. We covered the main ingredients like firm tofu and fresh veggies. You learned the step-by-step process, tips for perfect texture, and options for variations.

In conclusion, this dish is simple yet delicious. Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own. Have fun cookin

- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 green bell pepper, sliced - 1 medium carrot, julienned - 1 cup snap peas - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 inch ginger, grated - 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari - 1-2 tablespoons chili paste - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 1 teaspoon sugar - 2 green onions, chopped - Sesame seeds When I make this dish, I love using firm tofu. It holds its shape well. Pressing the tofu helps remove extra moisture. This step makes the tofu crispier. The colorful veggies add great flavor and texture. Red and green bell peppers bring sweetness and crunch. Carrots add a nice bite, and snap peas give freshness. I always use fresh garlic and ginger. They create a strong, tasty base. The garlic gives a warm flavor, while ginger adds a zesty kick. For the sauce, I choose soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Chili paste gives the dish heat, so adjust it to your taste. Sesame oil adds richness, and a bit of sugar balances the flavors. Finally, I sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. They add a pop of color and extra crunch. This dish not only looks good, but it also tastes amazing! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, you need to press the tofu. This step removes extra moisture, which helps the tofu to fry better. Place the tofu block between two plates and add some weight on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. This size helps the tofu cook evenly and absorb flavors. Next, heat one tablespoon of sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok. Use medium-high heat for best results. Add the cubed tofu and stir-fry for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the tofu to turn a nice golden brown on all sides. This gives it a tasty texture. Once done, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Now, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until you smell the lovely aroma. Then, add sliced red and green bell peppers, julienned carrot, and snap peas to the pan. Cook the vegetables for about 3 to 4 minutes. They should be tender but still crisp. Now, return the crispy tofu to the pan. Pour in soy sauce, chili paste, and sugar. Stir everything well so that the flavors mix nicely. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through. This final step makes the dish so flavorful and colorful. To get the best tofu, press it for at least 15 minutes. Use a clean towel. Place something heavy on top, like a cast-iron pan. This removes extra moisture, giving you a firm texture. For great crispy tofu, heat your pan well. Use medium-high heat and add sesame oil. Sauté the tofu until it's golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This makes it crunchy and adds flavor. If you like heat, use more chili paste. Start with 1 tablespoon and taste. You can always add more if you want it spicier. For a milder dish, use less chili paste. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat. Sweetness helps bring out the flavors without making it too spicy. Fresh veggies make your stir-fry taste better. Choose bright, firm vegetables. Look for bell peppers that are shiny and firm. For snap peas, pick ones that are crisp and green. Also, use high-quality soy sauce or tamari. Good sauce boosts flavor and makes your dish shine. Pro Tips Press Tofu Well: Make sure to press the tofu for at least 15-30 minutes to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps achieve a better texture when stir-frying. Customize Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your heat preference. Start with less, as you can always add more later. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Garnish for Flavor: Don't skip the green onions and sesame seeds! They add a fresh crunch and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. {{image_2}} You can switch tofu for tempeh or seitan. Both options provide a great texture. Tempeh has a nutty flavor and is high in protein. Seitan mimics meat and works well in stir-fries. If you want meat, add chicken or shrimp. Just cook them until they're done before adding veggies. This way, you keep everything tasty and fresh. Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli taste great in this dish. You can also add greens like spinach or bok choy. These greens cook quickly and add nutrition. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a nice, vibrant touch. You can mix up the flavors by using different sauces. Try hoisin or oyster sauce for a sweet touch. Adjust the garlic and ginger levels for unique tastes. If you love garlic, add more! For a hint of sweetness, increase the sugar. Experimenting with flavors makes this dish your own. Store any leftovers in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep the stir-fry fresh. This way, your meal stays tasty for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps avoid moisture buildup, which can ruin the texture. Yes, you can freeze the stir-fry! For best results, freeze it in individual portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date to track freshness. When freezing, avoid adding garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds. Add those when you reheat. You can reheat your stir-fry in two ways: the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place it in a bowl and cover it with a lid. Heat in short bursts to prevent it from getting soggy. Stir it halfway through for even warming. For the stovetop, heat a little oil in a pan. Add the stir-fry and cook over medium heat. Stir often until hot. This method helps keep the tofu crispy and veggies tender. Enjoy your flavorful meal again! You can pair this dish with: - Steamed rice - Fried rice - Noodles - Quinoa - Cauliflower rice Each option adds a nice base and absorbs the tasty sauce. Yes! This dish is vegan by nature. All the ingredients are plant-based. Tofu, vegetables, and sauces fit perfectly into a vegan diet. You can enjoy this meal without worry. To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Check other ingredients for gluten, too. Fresh vegetables and tofu are naturally gluten-free as well. In this blog, we explored making a tasty chili garlic tofu stir-fry. We covered the main ingredients like firm tofu and fresh veggies. You learned the step-by-step process, tips for perfect texture, and options for variations. In conclusion, this dish is simple yet delicious. Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own. Have fun cooking!

Chili Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry

A spicy and flavorful stir-fry featuring crispy tofu and fresh vegetables.
Print Recipe Save Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons chili paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 green onions chopped, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, cut it into bite-sized cubes.
  • In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers, julienned carrot, and snap peas. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes or until they are tender yet crisp.
  • Return the crispy tofu to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Add soy sauce, chili paste, and sugar, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  • Remove from heat and transfer your stir-fry to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

Notes

Adjust the chili paste according to your heat preference.
Keyword spicy, stir fry, tofu, vegetarian

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