Tofu Peanut Stir Fry
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
A delightful mix of crispy tofu and vibrant vegetables tossed in a creamy peanut sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
This Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures. The crispy tofu pairs perfectly with the crunchy vegetables, all enveloped in a rich peanut sauce that you won't be able to resist.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of protein and veggies for a wholesome meal
- Creamy peanut sauce that adds a delightful richness
- Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
A Wholesome Delight
Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures. The crispy tofu paired with fresh, vibrant vegetables creates a dish that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. This stir fry is the perfect way to incorporate plant-based protein and nutritious veggies into your diet, making it an excellent choice for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
The combination of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots adds a rainbow of color to your plate, ensuring that each bite is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also offers a variety of textures, from the crunch of the vegetables to the creaminess of the peanut sauce.
The Magic of Peanut Sauce
What truly sets this dish apart is the creamy peanut sauce that envelops the tofu and vegetables. Made with simple ingredients like peanut butter, soy sauce, and maple syrup, this sauce is rich in flavor and easy to whip up. It provides a delightful balance of savory and sweet, bringing all the elements of the dish together seamlessly.
The garlic and ginger add depth and warmth to the sauce, making each bite a comforting experience. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, the peanut sauce can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences, allowing you to experiment with different seasonings and heat levels.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
One of the best features of this Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is its speed and convenience. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.
The recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. This flexibility not only reduces food waste but also lets you personalize the dish to your liking. Whether you opt for snap peas, zucchini, or whatever is fresh, you can create a stir fry that's uniquely yours.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Chopped peanuts and green onions for garnish
Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth stir-fry experience!
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
Combine Everything
Add the tofu back into the pan with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Serve
Garnish with chopped peanuts and green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Enjoy your delicious Tofu Peanut Stir Fry!
Serving Suggestions
Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a hearty meal, serve it over steamed rice or noodles, allowing the peanut sauce to soak into the grains for added flavor. Alternatively, you can pair it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
If you're looking to add a bit more crunch, consider serving it with a side of fresh cucumber salad or a light Asian slaw. These refreshing sides complement the rich, creamy stir fry and enhance the overall dining experience.
Storage Tips
Leftovers from your Tofu Peanut Stir Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply add a splash of water or a drizzle of soy sauce to the stir fry to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
If you're meal prepping, consider dividing the stir fry into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a nutritious meal ready whenever hunger strikes.
Nutritional Benefits
This Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it a great choice for maintaining muscle health and overall wellness.
The mixed vegetables provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. This dish is not only filling but also supports digestive health and boosts immunity, making it a smart addition to your weekly meal rotation.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you enjoy.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili paste or fresh chili peppers to the stir fry for some heat.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tofu Peanut Stir Fry
A delightful mix of crispy tofu and vibrant vegetables tossed in a creamy peanut sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Chopped peanuts and green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
Add the tofu back into the pan with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Garnish with chopped peanuts and green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 18g