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In today's fast-paced world, finding quick and nutritious meal options can be a challenge. This is where stir-fries come into play, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. With their versatility, stir-fries are ideal for busy lifestyles, allowing you to pack in a variety of ingredients without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Among the myriad of stir-fry options, the Chili Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry stands out as a delicious choice that combines plant-based protein with vibrant vegetables and a tantalizing sauce.

Chili Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry

Discover the delicious world of Chili Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry, a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. This vibrant dish combines firm tofu, colorful bell peppers, and crunchy snap peas, all sautéed in a tantalizing chili garlic sauce. With its impressive plant-based protein content and essential vitamins, this stir-fry is both satisfying and healthy. Learn how to easily make this flavorful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
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Ingredients
  

14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 cup snap peas, trimmed

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust according to heat preference)

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu: Begin by pressing the firm tofu to eliminate excess moisture; this step is crucial for achieving crispy tofu. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch bite-sized cubes for even cooking.

    Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.

      Cook the Tofu: Gently add the cubed tofu to the skillet in a single layer. Allow it to cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. Turn the cubes occasionally with a spatula until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, carefully remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

        Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the snap peas. Sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are bright and tender yet still retain a slight crunch.

          Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently. Keep an eye on the garlic to avoid burning, as this can lead to bitterness.

            Combine Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the chili paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until well combined. Pour this savory sauce over the sautéed vegetables and stir to ensure everything is nicely coated.

              Return Tofu to the Skillet: Carefully add the crispy tofu back into the skillet. Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring the tofu and vegetables are well coated in the sauce. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

                Season to Taste: Taste the stir-fry and adjust with salt and pepper as desired. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add more chili paste.

                  Serve: Serve the spicy chili garlic tofu stir-fry over a bed of hot cooked rice or noodles. For the finishing touch, garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add a delightful crunch.

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

                      - Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, serve in shallow bowls with a colorful array of tofu and veggies. Consider adding a lemon wedge on the side for an extra burst of freshness!