Sweet and sour tofu is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors with crispy tofu. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this dish has gained popularity worldwide for its unique taste and versatility. Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 3/4 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Preparation Steps:
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Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place something heavy on top, like a cast-iron skillet, to press out the excess moisture for about 15-20 minutes.
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Coat the tofu: Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch until well coated.
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Fry the tofu: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and cook until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
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Saute the vegetables: In the same pan, sauté the bell pepper and onion until they begin to soften.
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Add the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables.
- Combine everything: Add the crispy tofu and pineapple chunks to the pan, stirring to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Cooking Time & Serving:
This "sweet and sour tofu" recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
Tips and Tricks:
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the sweet and sour sauce is gluten-free.
- You can add your choice of vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or snow peas to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
In conclusion, this sweet and sour tofu recipe is a delightful, meat-free alternative that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare. Give it a try and let its delectable taste win you over. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media and tag us; we’d love to see your take on this classic dish! Happy cooking!
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