Stir-Fried Vegetables with Tofu - A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Looking for a simple yet nutritious meal that can be prepared in no time? Stir-fried vegetables with tofu is an excellent choice! This dish not only provides essential vitamins but also serves as a delightful side or main course. The cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, and it serves four people perfectly.

Ingredients needed:

• 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
• 3 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the tofu. Place it in a colander or strainer over a bowl and cover with paper towels. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes so that excess water is squeezed out, which will prevent the tofu from becoming too watery during cooking.

2. While waiting for the tofu to drain, prepare your vegetables. Cut all of them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

3. In a large skillet or wok, heat up two tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers slightly. Add the garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant but not browned – about 1 minute.

4. Once the aromatics are cooked, add your cubed tofu carefully into the hot pan. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes before turning over each piece to let both sides get golden-brown on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside. Set aside the fried tofu momentarily once done.

5. Now, return the vegetables you prepared earlier back into the skillet/wok along with the drained tofu. Pour in two tablespoons of soy sauce (or tamari). Stir everything together gently to combine flavors evenly among all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary by adding salt or pepper according to personal preference.

6. Cover the pan partially, let it cook for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but not overcooked. You want them still slightly crunchy yet fully cooked through.

For an extra touch of flavor and nutrition, consider these optional additions:

• Fresh cilantro or green onions: Add a burst of freshness right before serving by sprinkling some chopped fresh herbs over the top.
• Scallions: For added color and depth in taste, you could also include scallions which pair wonderfully with this dish.
• Cooked rice or noodles: To make it a heartier meal, serve stir-fried vegetables with tofu over steamed rice or cooked pasta/noodles for an even more substantial dish.

Tips:

• Feel free to experiment with different types of vegetables based on availability and personal taste. Green beans, snap peas, zucchini are just a few other options that would work well here.
• If you prefer less salt in your diet, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce for gluten-free alternatives or simply reduce the amount used.

This dish is incredibly versatile and adaptable to suit various dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed hot off the stove as a stand-alone meal or paired with other dishes, this stir-fried vegetable tofu combo makes every day feel like an occasion worth celebrating!