Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil

Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil Recipe - Thai Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Thailand | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the heat of chili peppers with the freshness of basil. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their meals.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Asian cuisine, where tofu is a staple ingredient. Tofu is known for its versatility and ability to absorb flavors, making it a popular choice for spicy dishes.

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 small fresh red or green chili peppers, seeded and minced
1 lb (454 g) extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1 inch cubes
1 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
0.5 lb (227 g) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 0.5 inch lengths
0.5 cup chopped fresh basil

How to prepare

1. Heat oil in a wok or large, deep skillet over high heat. Add garlic and chiles, and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. Add tofu and stir-fry until heated through, about 2 minutes.
2. Add soy sauce and sugar, and mix well. Add beans and cook until they turn bright green, for about 1 to 2 minutes. Add basil and mix thoroughly. Transfer to a warm platter and serve hot.

Variations

Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the tofu with chicken, shrimp, or beef for a non-vegetarian option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the tofu well before cooking to remove excess moisture.

- Use extra-firm tofu for this recipe to ensure that it holds its shape during cooking.

- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying is the main cooking technique used in this recipe, which helps to retain the freshness and crunchiness of the vegetables.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the green beans with snap peas or asparagus for a different twist on this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the tofu and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This dish is best served fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil in a large serving bowl or on individual plates garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a side of steamed jasmine rice and a light cucumber salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The vegetable oil used in this recipe adds a small amount of healthy fats to the dish.

Proteins

Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially from the fresh basil and green beans.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy, which is a common allergen. Be sure to check for any other allergens in the ingredients used.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a nutritious and balanced meal option that is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. With a balance of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil. It was many years ago when I was living in the bustling city of Bangkok, Thailand. I had just moved to a small apartment in the heart of the city, and I was eager to explore all the culinary delights that the city had to offer.

One day, as I was wandering through the vibrant street markets, I stumbled upon a small food stall that was selling all kinds of delicious dishes. The aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, and I couldn't resist stopping to take a closer look. As I approached the stall, I saw a young woman who was expertly tossing cubes of tofu in a sizzling wok, adding a generous amount of chili peppers and fresh basil leaves.

Intrigued by the dish, I decided to strike up a conversation with the woman. She introduced herself as Nithaya, a local chef who had been perfecting the art of Thai cuisine for many years. She explained that the dish she was making was a traditional Thai recipe for Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil, a dish that was loved by locals and visitors alike.

I watched as Nithaya deftly seasoned the tofu with a blend of spices and sauces, creating a mouthwatering aroma that made my stomach growl with anticipation. She explained that the key to the dish was to use fresh ingredients and to sauté the tofu until it was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

After a few minutes of cooking, Nithaya plated the dish and handed me a fork to try. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew that I had discovered something truly special. The tofu was perfectly seasoned with a fiery kick from the chili peppers, and the fresh basil leaves added a fragrant and herbaceous note that balanced out the heat.

I couldn't help but ask Nithaya for the recipe, and she was more than happy to share her secrets with me. She explained that the key to the dish was to marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and chili paste before frying it in a hot wok with plenty of oil. She also emphasized the importance of using fresh basil leaves, as they added a unique flavor that couldn't be replicated by any other herb.

Over the next few weeks, I visited Nithaya's food stall regularly, watching her cook and learning the intricacies of the recipe for Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil. I took notes, asked questions, and even tried my hand at making the dish myself. With each attempt, I honed my skills and refined the recipe to suit my own taste preferences.

Eventually, I had mastered the art of making Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil, and it became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I would often prepare the dish for friends and family, who marveled at the bold flavors and complex spices that danced on their tongues with each bite.

As the years went by, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to suit different occasions and palates. Sometimes I would add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy finish, or toss in some fresh vegetables for added crunch and texture.

But no matter how I adapted the recipe, the essence of Nithaya's original creation remained at its core. The spicy kick of the chili peppers, the fragrant aroma of the basil leaves, and the crispy texture of the tofu all combined to create a dish that was truly unforgettable.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen many years later, I think back fondly on that day in Bangkok when I first discovered the recipe for Spicy Fried Tofu with Basil. It was a moment that changed the course of my culinary journey, and one that I will always cherish as a testament to the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.