Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that's about to transform your home cooking into a vibrant culinary journey! This Spicy Thai Basil Tofu is not just a recipe—it's an explosion of flavors that will transport you straight to the bustling street markets of Bangkok. With its perfect balance of heat, freshness, and umami, this quick and easy meal promises to become your new go-to comfort food that's both nutritious and irresistibly delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, cubed
- 1 cup Thai basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Drain the firm tofu and press it gently between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- Next, wash the Thai basil leaves thoroughly and set them aside to dry. Mince the garlic cloves finely and slice the bell pepper into thin strips.
- In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the cubed tofu to the skillet. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown on all sides.
- Once the tofu is nicely browned, add the sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper is tender but still crisp.
- Stir in the chili paste and soy sauce, making sure to coat the tofu and vegetables evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finally, add the Thai basil leaves to the skillet. Toss everything together until the basil is wilted and fragrant, which should take about 1 minute.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Spicy Thai Basil Tofu hot with steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Tofu Texture Matters: Always use firm tofu and press out excess moisture to ensure a crispy, golden exterior when frying.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Use fresh Thai basil if possible—its unique flavor is crucial to authenticity. Regular basil can work in a pinch, but the taste will be different.
- Heat Control: Adjust the chili paste to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Have all ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking, as this stir-fry comes together quickly.
- High Heat is Essential: Use a wok or large skillet and cook on medium-high heat to get that perfect sear on tofu and quick-cook the vegetables.
- Don't Overcook the Basil: Add Thai basil leaves at the very end to preserve their bright flavor and aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
