Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients to create a flavor-packed and satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu (1 block, about 14-16 ounces): The star of the dish! Choose firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture in stir-fries. Pressing it removes excess water, allowing it to crisp up beautifully.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Coating the tofu in cornstarch is the secret to achieving that delightful crispy exterior when pan-frying or air-frying.
- Avocado Oil or Vegetable Oil (3 tablespoons): A neutral oil with a high smoke point is ideal for stir-frying. Avocado oil is a healthy option, but vegetable oil works just as well.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for savory depth. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
- Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced): Adds a warm, aromatic spice that complements the sweet chili sauce perfectly. Fresh ginger is highly recommended, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon).
- Red Bell Pepper (1, sliced): Provides sweetness, color, and a satisfying crunch. Feel free to use other colors of bell peppers as well.
- Broccoli Florets (1 cup): Adds a healthy dose of greens and a slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweetness of the sauce.
- Carrots (2, sliced or julienned): Contributes sweetness, color, and a satisfying bite.
- Snow Peas (1 cup): Offers a delicate sweetness and crispness. Snap peas also work well.
- Sweet Chili Sauce (½ cup): The flavor powerhouse! Use your favorite brand of sweet chili sauce. Adjust the amount to your preference for sweetness and spice.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari (2 tablespoons): Adds umami and saltiness. Tamari is a gluten-free option.
- Rice Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Provides a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
- Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a nutty aroma and flavor, enhancing the Asian-inspired profile of the dish.
- Sesame Seeds (for garnish, optional): Adds a visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor.
- Green Onions (for garnish, optional): Provides a fresh, mild oniony flavor and adds a pop of color.
- Cooked Rice, Noodles, or Quinoa (for serving): Your choice of base to serve the stir-fry over. Rice is a classic choice, but noodles or quinoa offer different textures and nutritional profiles.
Instructions
Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create a delicious Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry in no time:
- Prepare the Tofu: Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. Wrap the block of tofu in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Place something heavy on top, like a cookbook or a plate with cans. Press for at least 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving crispy tofu. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes (about ½-inch to ¾-inch).
- Coat the Tofu: In a medium bowl, toss the cubed tofu with cornstarch until evenly coated. Ensure each piece is lightly dusted with cornstarch. This coating will help the tofu crisp up beautifully when cooked.
- Cook the Tofu: You have two options for cooking the tofu: pan-frying or air-frying.
- Pan-Fry: Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil (or vegetable oil) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cornstarch-coated tofu cubes in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan). Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- Air-Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the cornstarch-coated tofu cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to work in batches). Air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same skillet or wok (if pan-frying tofu, add 1 more tablespoon of oil if needed), heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Vegetables: Add the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and sliced carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to retain some bite. Add the snow peas during the last 2-3 minutes of stir-frying, as they cook quickly.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Combine Everything: Pour the sweet chili sauce mixture over the vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and glaze the vegetables.
- Add Tofu Back In: Gently fold in the cooked crispy tofu into the skillet with the sauced vegetables. Stir to combine and ensure the tofu is coated in the delicious sweet chili sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat the tofu through and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Remove the Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry from the heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately over cooked rice, noodles, or quinoa. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 400
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 25
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Protein: 20