Description
This Crispy Tofu Stir Fry is a flavorful and satisfying dish featuring golden fried tofu cubes tossed with vibrant bell peppers, cashew nuts, and a savory ginger-soy sauce. Perfect as a vegetarian main course, it combines a delightful crunch with aromatic spices for a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Tofu
- 1 lb extra firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or vegetable oil, divided
For the Stir Fry
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup mixed bell pepper, seeded and cut in 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup cashew nuts
For the Sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon chili paste
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Spread the cubed tofu on a paper towel or clean, lint-free kitchen towel. Top with another layer of paper towels or a second clean kitchen towel. Place something flat and heavy on top and let the tofu sit for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Coat the tofu: In a shallow bowl, combine 4 tablespoons cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss the tofu cubes in this mixture, coating each side evenly.
- Fry the tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Fry the tofu cubes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Set aside.
- Sauté vegetables and nuts: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic, chopped onion, mixed bell peppers, and cashew nuts for about 3 minutes until fragrant and slightly tender. Return the fried tofu to the skillet.
- Prepare and add the sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch, low sodium soy sauce, minced ginger, and chili paste. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the tofu and vegetables. Stir well and bring to a simmer for 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly. Simmer longer if a thicker sauce is desired.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions or additional cashews if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is essential to achieve a crispy texture; skipping this step may result in soggy tofu.
- You can substitute cashew nuts with peanuts or almonds according to preference.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili paste or add fresh chopped chili.
- Use avocado oil or vegetable oil with a high smoke point for frying to avoid burning.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- If soy sauce is not available, tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
