Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and brighten your dinner table? This Tofu and Pepper Stir Fry with Cashews is not just a dish; it's a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious Asian-inspired recipe that’s packed with protein, colorful veggies, and crunchy cashews. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you cooking like a pro in no time. Dive in and discover how to create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup cashews
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Instructions
- Drain the tofu and press between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and pat dry thoroughly to ensure crispy edges during cooking.
- Prepare all vegetables by washing and cutting: slice red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips, cut broccoli into bite-sized florets, mince garlic and ginger.
- Heat a large wok or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and allow it to become hot but not smoking.
- Add tofu cubes to the hot oil, spreading them in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, turning carefully to maintain cube shape.
- Remove tofu from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to prevent burning.
- Add broccoli and bell peppers to the pan, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender but still vibrant in color.
- Return tofu to the pan, add soy sauce, and gently toss to combine all ingredients and coat with sauce.
- Sprinkle cashews over the stir fry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the nuts and blend flavors.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped cashews or green onions.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips
- Pressing the Tofu: To achieve that perfect crispy texture, make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for getting a golden-brown crust!
- Vegetable Prep: Have all your vegetables prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a quick process, and having everything at hand will make it easier to keep things moving.
- High Heat is Key: Use medium-high heat when cooking. This allows the tofu and vegetables to sear properly, locking in flavors and maintaining their vibrant colors.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the tofu in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, which means you won't get that desirable crispiness.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Snow peas, carrots, or snap peas can be great alternatives for a personal touch!
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing your stir fry with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to elevate the dish even further.
- Serve with Style: Pair your stir fry with steamed rice or noodles, and watch it transform into a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
