- Prepare the tofu:
Begin by draining and pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. Toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated. - Fry the tofu:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry them until golden and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside. - Make the sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, chili paste or sriracha, water, and cornstarch (if using). Set aside. - Stir-fry the vegetables:
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the dried red chilies (if using), garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and onion and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. - Combine the tofu and sauce:
Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu and vegetables, tossing everything together to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld. - Garnish and serve:
Stir in the peanuts and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve your Kung Pao Tofu over a bed of rice or noodles and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving Suggestions: Kung Pao Tofu is delicious served with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles. You can also pair it with a side of sautéed greens or a simple salad for added freshness.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to retain the tofu’s crispiness.
Variants:
- Protein Options: You can substitute tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different plant-based protein.
- Vegetable Variations: Add additional veggies such as zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrients and variety.
- Spicy Version: Increase the amount of chili paste or sriracha for an even spicier kick!
FAQ:
- Can I use a different protein instead of tofu? Yes! You can substitute tofu with tempeh, seitan, or even a mix of both for a different texture and flavor.
- How can I make this dish spicier? To amp up the heat, add more chili paste or sriracha, or toss in some extra dried chilies during the stir-fry step.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the tofu, sauce, and vegetables ahead of time, and then simply stir-fry and assemble when you’re ready to serve.
- Can I use a store-bought stir-fry sauce? While homemade sauce is recommended for the best flavor, you can use store-bought stir-fry sauces if you’re short on time. Just be sure to check the ingredients for any added sugars or unwanted preservatives.
Kung Pao Tofu is a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s sure to spice up your dinner routine! Perfect for vegan or plant-based meals, it’s packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition. Enjoy!
