Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger Soy Glaze
Craving a delicious homemade dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying? This Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger Soy Glaze is your perfect weeknight solution. You’ll love how quickly you can create a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Extra-Firm Tofu: Use super-firm tofu for even crispier results.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos work well for gluten-free options.
- Fresh Ginger: Ground ginger can be used, but fresh offers superior flavor.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas are great additions.
- Cornstarch: Arrowroot powder can be substituted.
Ingredients:
For the Crispy Tofu:
- 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)
For the Ginger Soy Glaze:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed stir-fry vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli florets, sliced carrots)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (without rice/noodles)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, whisk, cutting board, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu
Press your extra-firm tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess water; this is key for crispy tofu. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until they are evenly coated.
2. Make the Ginger Soy Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Set this delicious glaze aside.
3. Cook the Tofu
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cornstarch-coated tofu in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the crispy tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet. Add your desired stir-fry vegetables. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Combine and Glaze
Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Pour the prepared ginger soy glaze over everything. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the glaze. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly.
6. Serve Your Homemade Dinner
Serve your flavorful Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if you like. Enjoy your fantastic homemade dinner recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Include cashews or peanuts for added crunch and protein.
- Swap out vegetables for whatever you have on hand, like mushrooms or bok choy.
- Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter to the glaze for a satay-inspired flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. The tofu may lose some crispiness when reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Why do I need to press the tofu?
A: Pressing tofu removes excess water, which helps it absorb flavor better and become much crispier when cooked. It’s a crucial step for achieving that desired texture in this homemade dinner recipe.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, you can use frozen stir-fry vegetables. Make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water before adding them to the skillet.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze or include a few slices of fresh chili pepper with your vegetables.
Q: What kind of oil is best for stir-frying?
A: Oils with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil are best for stir-frying.
Q: Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can whisk the ginger soy glaze ingredients together and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making this homemade dinner even quicker to prepare.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and verify that your cornstarch is gluten-free.
