Stir-frying is a quick and versatile cooking method that brings out the best in fresh ingredients. This Tofu Stir Fry with Basil and Eggplant offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. With its vibrant colors and aromatic basil, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option. Enjoy the satisfying blend of soft tofu, tender eggplant, and fragrant basil in every bite.
Steps
- Drain the tofu and wrap each block in a double layer of paper towels, pressing gently to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 3/4-inch cubes.
- Heat canola oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Sauté for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tofu is golden on all sides.
- Add garlic, two-thirds of the chopped green onions, ginger, chili paste, and the remaining soy sauce to the pan. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Gradually add spinach to the pan, stirring until each batch wilts before adding more. Once all spinach is added, stir in sesame seeds and sesame oil.
- Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle reserved green onions on top. Serve hot with brown rice or noodles, and season with additional soy sauce and chili paste to taste.
Ingredients
- 2 (14-ounce) packages of extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon canola oil or grapeseed oil
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, divided, plus extra for taste
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced (about 1 heaping tablespoon)
- 1 small bunch of green onions, finely chopped, divided
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh chili paste (sambal oelek) or 1/4–1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 10 ounces baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1188kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 88g | Fat: 68g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Fiber: 20g | Sugar: 4g
FAQ
- What type of tofu is best for stir fry?
- Extra-firm tofu is ideal for stir fries due to its lower water content, which allows it to become crispy on the outside while maintaining a firm texture inside.
- Can I use different vegetables in the tofu stir fry?
- Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. You can use any vegetables you have on hand. Quick-cooking veggies like spinach are great for speed, while firmer veggies like broccoli or peppers may need to be cooked separately before adding the tofu back to the pan.
- How can I make my tofu extra crispy?
- Press as much liquid out of the tofu as you can before cooking. You can also follow the crispy tofu preparation guide, which involves boiling, drying, and then cubing the tofu before stir-frying.
- Is this tofu stir fry gluten-free?
- Yes, it can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.
- What can I serve with tofu stir fry?
- Tofu stir fry pairs well with brown rice or noodles, which can be cooked alongside the stir fry for a complete meal.
- Can I make this dish spicy?
- Yes, you can add heat to the dish by incorporating fresh chili paste or red pepper flakes to taste. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spiciness.
Tips
- Press Tofu Thoroughly: To achieve crispy tofu, ensure you press out as much liquid as possible. Wrap the tofu in paper towels, place a heavy object on top, and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Incremental Soy Sauce Addition: Add soy sauce gradually throughout the cooking process to develop a richer and more complex flavor profile rather than adding it all at once.
- Use Extra-Firm Tofu: For the best texture in stir fries, always opt for extra-firm tofu. It holds its shape better and provides a satisfying, crispy exterior when cooked.
- Add Sesame Oil at the End: To preserve its rich, nutty flavor, drizzle sesame oil over the stir fry just before serving instead of cooking with it from the start.
Equipment
- Wok – While a large, deep nonstick pan can work, a wok is recommended if you plan to cook stir fry often.
- Wide, Heatproof Spatula – Useful for stirring and flipping tofu cubes effectively.
