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- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and pressed - 2 tablespoons cornstarch - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 1 cup broccoli florets - 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color) - 1 cup snap peas - 1 carrot, julienned - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced - 3 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish) - Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)

Easy Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Rice

Discover the vibrant world of plant-based eating with this Colorful Crunch Tofu Stir-Fry recipe! Packed with fresh vegetables and crispy tofu, this dish is both nourishing and visually stunning. Learn how to perfectly prepare tofu for maximum flavor, explore essential ingredients like garlic and ginger, and master the art of stir-frying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this easy recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal that satisfies your cravings.

Ingredients
  

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed

2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots)

2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice

Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu: Begin by cutting the drained tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes. To ensure a crispy texture, place the tofu cubes in a bowl and sprinkle with cornstarch. Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated in cornstarch.

    Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated tofu cubes. Sauté for approximately 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, pour in the sesame oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil, and sauté them for about 30 seconds, or until they become fragrant and golden. This step infuses the oil with flavor.

        Cook the Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet, spreading them out to ensure even cooking. Stir-fry for roughly 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are bright in color and tender-crisp. If necessary, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan for optimal stir-frying.

          Combine Flavors: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle the soy sauce (or tamari) over the mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Let everything cook together for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Serve: To serve, spoon the colorful stir-fry over a generous bed of cooked jasmine or basmati rice. For a finishing touch, garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a handful of chopped green onions, if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 25 min | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, consider serving in vibrant bowls, creating a layered look with rice on the bottom and the stir-fry artfully arranged on top. Add a wedge of lime on the side for a fresh burst of flavor.