Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Szechuan? This Szechuan Style Tofu with Peanuts is not just a dish; it's an explosion of flavors that combines the nutty crunch of roasted peanuts with the bold, aromatic spices of Szechuan cuisine. Perfect for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices, this recipe is quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish. Dive into this delightful dish that promises to impress your family and friends, and discover the secret to creating a restaurant-quality meal right in your own home!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Szechuan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns
- 1 cup roasted peanuts
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the tofu. Drain the block of firm tofu and press it gently between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into even cubes, about 1-inch in size.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cubed tofu with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Gently toss the tofu to ensure all pieces are coated. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- While the tofu is marinating, prepare the Szechuan peppercorns. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the Szechuan peppercorns for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat and crush them lightly using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu cubes to the skillet. Fry the tofu for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
- Once the tofu is browned, add the chili paste to the skillet. Stir well to coat the tofu evenly with the chili paste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Next, add the crushed Szechuan peppercorns and roasted peanuts to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring that the peanuts are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the peanuts to warm up and absorb some of the flavors. Taste the dish and add salt as needed.
- Finally, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and flavor. Serve the Szechuan style tofu with peanuts hot, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.
Tips
- Press Your Tofu: For the best texture, make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This helps it absorb more flavor and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust when cooked.
- Toast the Peppercorns: Toasting the Szechuan peppercorns brings out their aromatic oils, enhancing the dish's flavor. Just be careful not to over-toast them, as they can become bitter.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less chili paste and gradually add more to suit your taste. Remember, Szechuan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Garnish for Freshness: Adding chopped green onions at the end not only provides a pop of color but also adds a fresh crunch that balances the dish's richness.
- Serve with Rice or Noodles: This Szechuan Style Tofu pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
