Weeknight Winner: Quick and Easy Stir-Fried Veggies with Tofu
Welcome to another exciting recipe from your favorite WordPress food blogger! Tonight, we’re diving into the world of quick and easy stir-fried veggies with tofu. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s get cooking!
Introduction
This recipe is designed for those who want to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Stir-frying is a fast and efficient cooking method that locks in the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients. The combination of crispy tofu and fresh vegetables creates a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that will leave you satisfied.
Ingredients
- Firm Tofu: 1 block (about 300g)
- Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and snow peas
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, finely grated
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Oyster Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Water or Vegetable Stock: 2 tablespoons
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for heat
- Green Onions: For garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Drain the tofu and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut it into bite-sized cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and snow peas. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, water or vegetable stock, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly. If desired, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked tofu to the skillet and mix everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your quick and easy stir-fried veggies with tofu!
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. It provides a good source of protein from the tofu, along with essential vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables. Each serving contains approximately 200 calories, with a balanced distribution of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The inclusion of soy sauce and oyster sauce adds a rich umami flavor while keeping sodium levels in check.
Variations and Tips
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what’s available or your personal preference. Some great alternatives include zucchini, mushrooms, bok choy, or even spinach. You can also adjust the seasoning according to your taste buds—add more soy sauce for saltiness, or a dash of chili paste for spiciness. For a heartier meal, serve this stir-fry over rice or noodles.
Conclusion
With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, this quick and easy stir-fried veggies with tofu is sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something nutritious yet satisfying. Don’t hesitate to try it out and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!