If you're on the hunt for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that packs a punch of Asian-inspired goodness, look no further than our Sesame Red Pepper Tofu! This delightful dish not only showcases the versatility of tofu but also brings together vibrant red bell peppers and aromatic spices in a way that will leave your taste buds dancing. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next dinner party. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the tofu. Press the firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
- While the tofu is pressing, prepare the vegetables. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips and chop the green onions, keeping the white and green parts separate. Mince the ginger and garlic, ensuring they are finely chopped for even distribution in the dish.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cubed tofu to the skillet. Sauté the tofu for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until it is golden brown on all sides. This will help achieve a nice texture.
- Once the tofu is browned, add the minced ginger and garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the sliced red bell pepper to the skillet and continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender but still crisp.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir to coat the tofu and vegetables evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the tofu and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine.
- Remove from heat and garnish with the sliced green onions, using the white parts for cooking and the green parts for garnish.
- Serve the Sesame Red Pepper Tofu hot over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy your delicious Asian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Press the Tofu Properly: To achieve the best texture, make sure to press the tofu for at least 15 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing it to absorb more flavor and crisp up nicely during cooking.
- Use High Heat: When sautéing the tofu, ensure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding the tofu. This will help create a beautiful golden crust and prevent sticking.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to the dish for added color and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked to perfection.
- Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the green onions! They add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the dish. Use the white parts during cooking and reserve the green tops for a lovely garnish.
- Serve with Style: For a complete meal, serve your Sesame Red Pepper Tofu over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. A sprinkle of extra sesame seeds on top adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
