Tofu Peanut Stir Fry
Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations
A quick and delicious stir fry packed with flavor and nutrition.
This Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring crispy tofu and vibrant vegetables in a rich peanut sauce. It's not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously creamy peanut sauce that elevates the dish
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
- Packed with protein from tofu and nutritious veggies
A Flavorful Journey
Tofu Peanut Stir Fry takes you on a delightful culinary adventure that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the fresh crunch of vibrant vegetables. This dish is not only visually appealing but also tantalizes your taste buds with each bite. The combination of textures—from the crispy tofu to the tender veggies—creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet healthy.
Incorporating a variety of vegetables allows for customization based on your preferences or what you have on hand. From sweet bell peppers to hearty broccoli and colorful carrots, this stir fry is as nutritious as it is delicious. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in those essential vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect choice for a balanced diet.
Quick and Convenient
One of the standout features of this Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is its simplicity and speed. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can serve a fresh, home-cooked dinner that the whole family will love.
Utilizing firm tofu not only adds protein but also absorbs the delicious peanut sauce beautifully. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, leaving you satisfied without feeling heavy. It's a fantastic option for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, proving that plant-based meals can be just as hearty and fulfilling.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the joys of making Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is the ability to tailor it to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as snap peas, zucchini, or even kale, depending on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge. You can also adjust the level of sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup in the sauce, making it as mild or bold as you prefer.
For those who crave a bit of heat, adding a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes can elevate this dish to a whole new level. Not only does this create a delicious contrast with the creamy peanut sauce, but it also adds an exciting kick that spice lovers will appreciate. Don't hesitate to make it your own!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference!
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Stir Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add mixed vegetables and stir fry for 3-4 minutes until they are just tender.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
Combine Everything
Add the tofu back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve
Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Tofu Peanut Stir Fry!
Serving Suggestions
This Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice, you can also serve it over whole grain rice or even quinoa for an added nutritional boost. If you're in the mood for something a little different, try tossing it with noodles for a delightful twist on a classic stir fry.
For a complete meal, consider adding a side of steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar. These sides complement the flavors of the stir fry while adding extra texture and nutrients to your plate.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing your Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is a breeze. Simply place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, just reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
If you find that the sauce has thickened in the fridge, a splash of water or vegetable broth can help restore its creamy consistency. Stir well as you heat to ensure an even distribution of the sauce, bringing back that delightful creamy texture.
Nutritional Benefits
This Tofu Peanut Stir Fry is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle growth and repair, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, the mixed vegetables contribute a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
Peanut butter, while creamy and delicious, is also rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels. This dish strikes a superb balance between flavor and nutrition, making it a meal you can feel good about enjoying any day of the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan if you use maple syrup instead of honey.
Tofu Peanut Stir Fry
A quick and delicious stir fry packed with flavor and nutrition.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: International Dish Inspirations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
How-To Steps
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add mixed vegetables and stir fry for 3-4 minutes until they are just tender.
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
Add the tofu back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 14g