Tofu Fried Rice

Tofu Fried Rice Recipe - Vegan-friendly Chinese Dish

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tofu fried rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe combines the flavors of tofu, vegetables, and rice to create a satisfying and flavorful dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

History

Fried rice is a popular dish in many Asian cultures, with each region putting its own unique spin on the classic recipe. Tofu fried rice is a vegetarian twist on the traditional dish, replacing the meat with tofu for a healthier and lighter option.

Ingredients

1 tbsp dark sesame oil, divided
1 x 10.5 oz (298 g) package firm tofu, cut into 0.5 inch cubes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground ginger
1 x 10 oz (283 g) package frozen peas, thawed
1 cup bean sprouts
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
4 green onions, chopped
2 medium carrots, cut into diagonal slices
3 cups cooked brown rice, chilled
0.5 cup slivered almonds, toasted
0.25 cup soy sauce
0.5 cup flaked coconut, toasted

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Stir-fry tofu in the oil with garlic and ginger for 3 minutes.
Add peas, bean sprouts, mushrooms, onions, and carrots.
Stir-fry until the peas and carrots are tender.
Stir in rice, almonds, and soy sauce; heat thoroughly.

Variations

Add in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
Use white rice or quinoa instead of brown rice for a different twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use firm tofu for this recipe, as it will hold its shape better when stir-frying.

- Chilling the cooked rice before using it in the recipe will help prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Toasting the almonds and coconut before adding them to the dish will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve tofu fried rice hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and nutritious meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying the tofu and vegetables in a hot skillet or wok will help to develop a nice char and enhance the flavors of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tempeh or seitan instead of tofu for a different protein option.

- Substitute tamari for soy sauce for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the tofu fried rice ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the tofu fried rice with chopped green onions, cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair tofu fried rice with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect meal combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

380

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 5g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 20% DV

Alergens

Contains soy and tree nuts (almonds and coconut)

Summary

Tofu fried rice is a well-balanced dish that is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for vegetarians and those looking for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Tofu fried rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young woman eager to learn the art of cooking. I had always been fascinated by the way my mother and grandmother could take simple ingredients and turn them into delicious meals that brought our family together.

One summer, while visiting a friend in the bustling city of Hong Kong, I had the opportunity to learn a new recipe that would change the way I cooked forever. My friend, Mei-Ling, was an excellent cook and she invited me to join her in the kitchen one afternoon to learn how to make one of her favorite dishes - Tofu Fried Rice.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared our workspace, Mei-Ling explained to me the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients in Chinese cooking. She showed me how to properly season the wok and how to cook the rice to perfection. I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables and cooked the tofu until it was crispy and golden brown.

The aroma of garlic and ginger filled the air as Mei-Ling added the vegetables and tofu to the rice, stirring everything together with a skill that only comes from years of practice. I could tell that this dish was going to be something special, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

When the Tofu Fried Rice was finally ready, Mei-Ling plated it up and we sat down to enjoy our meal together. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before - savory, slightly sweet, and with a hint of spice that lingered on my tongue. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Mei-Ling graciously shared her recipe with me, explaining each step in detail and giving me tips on how to make it my own. I took notes diligently, making sure to capture every nuance and flavor profile that made this dish so special.

When I returned home from my trip, I wasted no time in recreating Mei-Ling's Tofu Fried Rice in my own kitchen. I carefully followed her instructions, taking care to chop the vegetables just so and cook the tofu until it was perfectly crispy. As I stirred everything together in the wok, I could almost hear Mei-Ling's voice guiding me through each step.

When the dish was finally finished, I plated it up and took a bite. The flavors transported me back to that sunny kitchen in Hong Kong, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had successfully recreated Mei-Ling's recipe.

Over the years, I have made Tofu Fried Rice countless times for my family and friends, each time adding my own twist to the dish. Whether it's using different vegetables or experimenting with new seasonings, the recipe has become a staple in my kitchen and a favorite among those who have had the pleasure of tasting it.

As I look back on that fateful day in Hong Kong, I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from Mei-Ling and to expand my culinary repertoire. The recipe for Tofu Fried Rice will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly thankful.