Tofu Stir Fry with Charred Onion

Tofu Stir Fry with Charred Onion Recipe - Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tofu Stir Fry with Charred Onion is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe combines the savory flavors of tofu, charred onion, and snow peas with a tangy and slightly spicy sauce. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

History

Tofu Stir Fry with Charred Onion is a modern twist on traditional stir fry dishes that have been enjoyed in Asian cuisine for centuries. Tofu, a versatile and protein-rich ingredient made from soybeans, is a staple in many Asian dishes. The addition of charred onion adds a depth of flavor and a hint of smokiness to this classic dish.

Ingredients

2 cups long-grain white rice
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sesame seeds
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium onion, diced in 0.5- to 1-inch pieces
1 lb (454 g) firm tofu, cut into 0.5-inch cubes
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp vinegar of your choice
1 tsp granulated sugar
hot sauce, to taste
2 tsp cornstarch
12 to 16 oz (454 g) fresh or frozen trimmed snow peas

How to prepare

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add rice and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
Meanwhile, heat an iron skillet or wok over high heat for 1 minute. Add sesame seeds and stir constantly for 2 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove the sesame seeds to a small dish. Add vegetable oil to the pan and heat for several seconds, still over high heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to char slightly, about 7 minutes. Add tofu and stir occasionally for 2 minutes to heat it through.
While the onion is cooking, combine soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and hot sauce in a separate bowl, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Add cornstarch, stirring until the mixture is completely blended and no lumps remain.
Add the soy sauce mixture to the tofu-onion mixture. Add peas and stir over high heat until the peas are barely tender and the sauce has thickened, about 3 minutes. Serve over rice sprinkled with sesame seeds. Provide extra hot sauce and soy sauce on the side.
Makes 4 large servings.

Variations

Add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots to the stir fry for added nutrition and flavor.
Use different types of vinegar such as rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a unique twist on the sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use firm tofu for this recipe, as it will hold its shape better during cooking.

- Char the onion in a hot skillet or wok to bring out its natural sweetness and add a smoky flavor to the dish.

- Be sure to stir the sauce mixture well to ensure that the cornstarch is fully dissolved and there are no lumps.

- Serve the stir fry over hot rice to soak up the delicious sauce and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tofu Stir Fry with Charred Onion over steamed white rice for a complete meal.

- Garnish with sliced green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Char the onion in a hot skillet or wok to bring out its natural sweetness and add a smoky flavor to the dish.

- Stir fry the tofu and vegetables over high heat to ensure that they cook quickly and retain their crisp texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute tempeh or seitan for tofu for a different protein source.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights.

- Cook the rice in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Tofu Stir Fry with Charred Onion in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal. - Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of hot sauce for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a side of pickled vegetables for a balanced meal.

- Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or green tea for a refreshing beverage option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the stir fry in a skillet or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Approximately 400 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Long-white rice: 45g per cup

- Snow peas: 8g per cup

- Sugar: 4g per teaspoon

Fats

- Vegetable oil: 14g per tablespoon

- Sesame seeds: 5g per tablespoon

Proteins

- Tofu: 20g per 3 oz serving

Vitamins and minerals

Snow peas are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.

- Tofu is rich in calcium, iron, and magnesium.

Alergens

Contains soy (tofu) and sesame seeds

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

Summary

Tofu Stir Fry with Charred Onion is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe combines the savory flavors of tofu, charred onion, and snow peas with a tangy and slightly spicy sauce. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice for a satisfying and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Tofu Stir Fry with Charred Onion. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a visit to the local farmer's market where I had picked up some fresh tofu and onions. As I unpacked my bags and laid out the ingredients on the kitchen counter, I couldn't help but think about all the delicious possibilities that lay ahead.

I had always been a fan of stir fry dishes, but I had never tried making one with tofu before. As I read through the recipe, I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and textures - the soft, silky tofu paired with the crunchy, charred onions sounded like a match made in culinary heaven.

The recipe itself was a bit of a mystery to me. I had never heard of tofu stir fry with charred onions before, and I wasn't sure where it had originated. But as I started to chop the onions and marinate the tofu, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was onto something special.

As the dish started to come together in the pan, the aroma of the charred onions mingling with the savory tofu filled the kitchen, and I knew I was in for a treat. I carefully stirred the ingredients, making sure to coat the tofu with the flavorful sauce, and watched as the onions caramelized to perfection.

When the dish was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was a revelation - the creamy tofu melted in my mouth, while the charred onions added a smoky, caramelized flavor that was simply irresistible. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made this tofu stir fry with charred onion recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add extra vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra crunch. Other times, I experiment with different sauces and seasonings, like a dash of soy sauce or a hint of ginger.

But no matter how I choose to customize the dish, the core flavors of the tofu stir fry with charred onion always remain the same. It's a dish that never fails to satisfy my cravings for something hearty and flavorful, and it never fails to impress my family and friends when I serve it at gatherings and dinner parties.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for all the people and places that have inspired me along the way. From the local farmer's market where I first found the fresh ingredients, to the countless cooks and chefs whose recipes have shaped my culinary repertoire, I owe a debt of gratitude to all those who have shared their knowledge and passion for good food with me.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy another delicious serving of tofu stir fry with charred onion, I raise my fork in a silent toast to the power of cooking and the joy of discovering new recipes. For me, this dish will always be a reminder of the endless possibilities that await in the kitchen, and the simple pleasures that come from sharing a delicious meal with those we love. Cheers to good food, good company, and the timeless art of cooking.