Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This tofu and tomato stir-fry is packed with flavor, vibrant colors, and is ready in under 30 minutes. It's the perfect weeknight meal for busy individuals or families who want a wholesome and satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals, showcasing the versatility of tofu and the bright taste of tomatoes. It's a great addition to your collection of homemade cooking creations, and I guarantee it will become one of your best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess water. This is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. You can do this by wrapping the tofu in paper towels and placing a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes. Then, cube the tofu.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Vegetables: Add the bell pepper and cherry tomatoes to the wok. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are slightly softened.
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Stir in Tofu and Sauce: Add the cubed tofu to the wok. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Simmer and Finish: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tofu is heated through and slightly browned, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot over cooked rice or quinoa.
Tips for the Best Tofu and Tomato Stir-Fry:
- Pressing the Tofu: This step is essential for getting crispy tofu. Don't skip it!
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If your pan is too crowded, the tofu will steam instead of brown. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Peanut Tofu and Tomato Stir-Fry: Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor.
- Spicy Tofu and Tomato Stir-Fry: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Ginger Tofu and Tomato Stir-Fry: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger with the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This delicious and healthy tofu and tomato stir-fry is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and offers a simple yet satisfying meal. Enjoy this versatile dish and explore the endless possibilities of easy recipes and healthy meals that you can create at home. It’s a fantastic recipe for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.