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- 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes - 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 green bell pepper, diced - 1 cup unsalted roasted peanuts - 4 green onions, chopped (keep white and green parts separate) - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced - 3 dried red chilies, deseeded and chopped - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup - 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce - Salt and pepper to taste - Sesame seeds - Extra green onions I love using firm tofu in this recipe. It holds its shape well and soaks up all the flavors. The soy sauce and cornstarch create a great marinade. The vegetable oils add richness and help to crisp up the tofu. I pick fresh veggies like red and green bell peppers for color and crunch. Don't skip the peanuts; they add a nice texture. The garlic and ginger give a fantastic aroma. Adjust the dried red chilies to make your dish as spicy as you like. The rice vinegar and sweetener balance the heat and add depth. For a beautiful finish, I like to sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Extra green onions not only look nice but also add a fresh kick. These ingredients come together to make a dish that is truly better than takeout. 1. Marinating with soy sauce and cornstarch Start with 14 oz of firm tofu. Press it to remove excess water. Cut the tofu into small cubes. In a large bowl, mix the tofu with 3 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss until the tofu is well-coated. Let it marinate for 15 minutes. This step helps to absorb the flavors. 2. Pan-frying for crispiness Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and let it get hot. Carefully add the marinated tofu cubes. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once done, remove the tofu and set it aside on a plate. 1. Sautéing aromatics and peppers In the same skillet, lower the heat a bit. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Then, add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of minced ginger, and 3 chopped dried red chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds. This will release a wonderful aroma. 2. Stir-frying technique Now, add 1 diced red bell pepper, 1 diced green bell pepper, and the white parts of 4 chopped green onions. Stir-fry these for 3-4 minutes. This keeps the colors bright while softening the veggies a bit. 1. Creating the sauce In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup), and 1 teaspoon of hoisin sauce. Add a splash of water to make it smooth. This sauce will bring the dish together. 2. Final mixing and garnishing Return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the tofu and veggies. Stir everything well for about 2-3 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken and coat the ingredients. Finally, fold in 1 cup of unsalted roasted peanuts and the green parts of the green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together one last time. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds for a lovely touch. - Pressing tofu is key. It removes excess water. This helps the tofu absorb flavors. - For crispy tofu, pan-fry it in hot oil. Aim for golden brown on all sides. - Choose dried red chilies based on your heat preference. Deseed them if you want less spice. - Balance heat with sweetness. Honey or maple syrup works well. This adds a nice touch. - Add more vegetables like carrots or snap peas for extra flavor and crunch. - Use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness. They brighten the dish. {{image_4}} - Vegan modifications: This recipe is already vegan since it uses tofu and no animal products. You can easily replace honey with maple syrup for a fully vegan option. - Gluten-free options: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free. This small swap ensures you enjoy the same great taste without gluten. - Using different vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies. Broccoli, snap peas, or carrots can add great color and flavor. Just remember to cut them into small pieces for even cooking. - Alternative protein sources: If you want variety, try tempeh or seitan as protein options. Both provide different textures and flavors that can work well in this dish. - Recommended side dishes: Serve your spicy Kung Pao tofu with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal. Both options soak up the sauce nicely. - Creative presentation ideas: Make your dish pop by using a large serving bowl. Arrange the Kung Pao tofu in the center and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Add a few green onion slices for color. To keep your spicy kung pao tofu fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to four days. Make sure to let the tofu cool down before sealing it. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled kung pao tofu in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat. You can add a splash of water to help revive the sauce. Stir often to avoid sticking. This method keeps the flavors bright and tasty. Serve your kung pao tofu hot for the best flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, reheat them gently. Use the stovetop or microwave with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. This way, the dish stays delicious and enjoyable. Yes, you can prepare Kung Pao Tofu ahead of time. Here are some tips: - Marinate the tofu and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. - Cook the tofu and veggies, then let them cool. - Store everything in an airtight container for up to three days. - Reheat in a pan with a splash of water for moisture. To kick up the heat, try these methods: - Increase the number of dried red chilies. - Add fresh chopped chilies like jalapeños. - Use chili paste or hot sauce in the sauce mix. Just remember, add heat slowly to keep flavors balanced. For a complete meal, consider these side dishes: - Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a hearty base. - Noodles tossed in sesame oil for a tasty twist. - Stir-fried greens like bok choy or broccoli for freshness. These pairings enhance the flavors and add variety. You can use other tofu types based on your preference: - Silken tofu offers a softer texture and creaminess. - Extra-firm tofu gives a denser bite and holds shape well. - Tempeh can be a great substitute for a nutty flavor. Just adjust cooking times as needed for each type. You learned how to make Kung Pao Tofu with firm tofu, tasty veggies, and spices. We covered prepping, cooking, and combining all the key parts. Plus, I shared tips to enhance texture and flavor. Remember, you can mix and match ingredients to fit your diet. Store leftovers properly, and reheat for the best taste. This meal is fun, tasty, and easy to make. Now, go ahead and enjoy your delicious Kung Pao Tofu!

Spicy Kung Pao Tofu Better Than Takeout

Spicy Kung Pao Tofu is a deliciously bold vegan dish that packs a flavorful punch! This easy-to-follow recipe combines crispy tofu with vibrant bell peppers and crunchy peanuts in a spicy, tangy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it's healthy, satisfying, and delightful served with jasmine rice or noodles. Ready to spice up your meals? Click through to explore the full recipe and discover how to make this tasty dish at home!
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Ingredients
  

14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes

3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 cup unsalted roasted peanuts

4 green onions, chopped (keep white and green parts separate)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced

3 dried red chilies, deseeded and chopped (adjust according to spice preference)

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon hoisin sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

Begin by preparing the tofu. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed tofu with the low-sodium soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss well until all pieces are thoroughly coated. Allow the tofu to marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

    Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and let it get hot. Carefully add the marinated tofu cubes to the hot oil, pan-frying them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

      In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and drizzle in the sesame oil. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped dried red chilies, sautéing for approximately 30 seconds until they release their fragrant aroma.

        Next, incorporate the diced red and green bell peppers along with the white parts of the green onions into the skillet. Stir-fry these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly while keeping their vibrant colors.

          Return the fried tofu to the skillet. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), hoisin sauce, and a splash of water to create a smooth sauce. Pour this sauce over the tofu and vegetables, stirring thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and glazes the ingredients.

            To finish, fold in the roasted peanuts and the green parts of the chopped green onions. Season the dish with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Give everything a final toss to meld the flavors beautifully.

              Serve the spicy kung pao tofu hot, garnished with a sprinkling of sesame seeds on top.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Transfer the Kung Pao Tofu to a large serving bowl, ensuring an enticing display of colors. Garnish generously with sesame seeds. For a complete meal, serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or noodles, adding an extra element of delight to your dining experience.