This stir-fried tofu with cashews is a healthy and delicious vegan dish that is packed with protein and full of flavors. The combination of crispy tofu, crunchy cashews, and colorful vegetables makes it a perfect weeknight dinner. It is quick and easy to prepare, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 14 ounces firm tofu
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup cashews
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Directions
- Drain and press the tofu to remove excess moisture.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and toss them in cornstarch to lightly coat.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onion and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for another minute.
- Add the cashews and cook for a minute until they are lightly toasted.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and cashews, and return the tofu to the skillet.
- Stir everything together and cook for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and vegetables.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Interesting Facts
Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein and contains all the essential amino acids.
Cashews are rich in healthy fats and provide a good amount of minerals like copper, magnesium, and zinc.
Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that helps retain the nutrients in the vegetables.