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Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Peppers – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Peppers

A flavor-packed, 30-minute meal that clears out the crisper drawer. This Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Peppers is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights, proving vegetarian cooking is anything but boring. The secret is a splash of Shaoxing wine for a deep, complex flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 to 2 lbs / 680 to 900g (31.7 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 3 tbsp (45 ml) peanut oil or other neutral oil, divided
  • 1 large onion, halved and sliced
  • 3 bell peppers (a mix of red, yellow, and green), cored and sliced
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh ginger, peeled and minced
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Shaoxing wine, dry sherry, or sake
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) vegetable stock or water
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup (50 g / 1.76 oz) scallions, roughly chopped
  • & Variations
  • For the crispiest tofu, press it for at least 30 minutes before cooking to remove excess water. You can also toss the cubed tofu in a tablespoon of cornstarch before frying.
  • High heat is essential for a great stir-fry. Ensure your pan is very hot before adding to get a good sear and prevent vegetables from becoming soggy.
  • Swap the veggies based on what you have! Try 2 cups (480 ml) of broccoli florets, sliced shiitake mushrooms, snow peas, or 3 cups (720 ml) of shredded cabbage or kale. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • To add a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger, or drizzle with sriracha or chili garlic sauce before serving.

Method
 

  1. Cut the pressed tofu into 1/2-inch cubes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml / 1 fl oz) of oil in a large wok or nonstick skillet over high heat until it shimmers.
  3. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes until it begins to soften.
  4. Add the sliced bell peppers and continue to cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender and slightly charred.
  5. Using a slotted spoon, remove the onion and pepper mixture from the pan and set aside.
  6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of oil to the hot pan.
  7. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 15 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Add the tofu cubes to the pan in a single layer.
  9. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until the tofu is lightly browned on all sides.
  10. Pour in the Shaoxing wine and vegetable stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
  11. Let it bubble and reduce by about half.
  12. Return the cooked onion and peppers to the pan.
  13. Add the soy sauce and chopped scallions.
  14. Stir everything together for 30-60 seconds until the sauce has thickened slightly and the scallions are bright green and glossy.
  15. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
  16. Don't overcrowd the pan.
  17. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure everything stir-fries rather than steams. This helps develop color and flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 32gFat: 28.5g

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