Fiery Flavours: Savory Chinese Chilli Tofu Recipe for Veggie Lovers

Are you seeking a new vegan dish to try? Well, a Chinese chilli tofu recipe is a perfect choice. This dish is a favourite in many households due to its unique blend of flavours and textures. It's also incredibly easy to make, making it a great option for those who are short on time but still want a delicious meal.

To make this dish, you'll need a few key ingredients, including tofu, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and chilli sauce. You can also add in other vegetables or proteins if you'd like to make it a more substantial meal. If you're a seafood lover, you can even try adding in some shrimp or scallops to give the dish an extra boost of flavour.

Once you have all of your ingredients, the preparation and cooking process is straightforward. Simply mix together the sauce ingredients, stir-fry the tofu and vegetables, and then add in the sauce. In just a few minutes, you'll have a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for any occasion. So why not give this Chinese chilli tofu recipe a try and see how it turns out for you?

Key Takeaways

• A Chinese chilli tofu recipe is an easy and delicious vegan meal option.
• The dish can be made with a variety of vegetables and proteins, including seafood.
• With a simple preparation and cooking process, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Breakdown

When it comes to making Chinese chilli tofu, the right ingredients are key to creating a delicious and flavourful dish. Here is a breakdown of the main components you will need, and some suggestions for how to choose the best options for each.

Tofu Selection

Tofu is the star of the show in this recipe, and choosing the right type is important. For the best texture and flavour, we recommend using extra firm tofu. This will hold up well in the sauce and give you a satisfying bite.

Sauce Components

The sauce is what gives Chinese chilli tofu its signature flavour. To make it, you will need soy sauce, chilli sauce, and something sweet to balance out the heat, such as brown sugar or maple syrup. You can also add some vinegar or orange juice for acidity, and sesame oil for richness.

Aromatic Additions

To add depth and complexity to the dish, we recommend using garlic, ginger, and spring onion. These aromatics will infuse the tofu and sauce with a delicious fragrance and flavour. If you want to spice things up even more, you can add some chilli flakes or sriracha.

Vegetable Varieties

To round out the dish and add some colour and texture, we suggest using bell peppers, carrots, and baby corn. These veggies will complement the tofu and sauce perfectly, and add some extra nutrition to the dish. If you want to get creative, you can also try adding some seafood, such as prawns or scallops. Just make sure to cook them separately and add them to the dish at the end to avoid overcooking.

Preparation Guide

Before you start cooking your Chinese chilli tofu recipe, there are a few things you need to prepare. Here is a guide to help you get started.

Tofu Pressing and Cutting

The first step is to press the tofu to remove excess water. You can do this by wrapping the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top of it for about 15 minutes. Once the excess water has been removed, cut the tofu into small cubes or bite-sized pieces.

Sauce Mixing

The sauce is a crucial component of your Chinese chilli tofu recipe. To make the sauce, mix together minced garlic, soy sauce or tamari, sesame oil, cornstarch slurry, and your preferred sweetener. You can also add chilli sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined.

Vegetables Chopping

Next, chop your vegetables. You can use any vegetables you like, but some common choices include red onions, spring onions, garlic, ginger, and green chillies. You can also add seafood such as prawns or squid to your recipe. If you choose to use seafood, make sure to clean and prepare it properly before adding it to the dish.

Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking. Heat some oil in a wok or frying pan and stir-fry the tofu until it is golden brown. Add the vegetables and continue to stir-fry until they are cooked to your liking. Finally, add the sauce to the pan and stir everything together until the sauce has thickened and coated all the ingredients.

Serve your Chinese chilli tofu on a plate and enjoy!

Cooking Techniques

Stir-Frying Tofu

Stir-frying tofu is a quick and easy way to cook this protein-rich ingredient. Begin by heating a non-stick frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add oil to the pan and once hot, add the tofu. Stir-fry the tofu for a few minutes until it starts to turn golden brown. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.

Sauce Simmering

The sauce is an essential part of the Chinese chilli tofu recipe. Begin by mixing the sauce ingredients together in a bowl. Heat a non-stick frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the sauce to the pan and bring it to a simmer. Continue to simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens.

Combining Ingredients

Once the tofu and sauce are ready, it's time to combine them. Add the stir-fried tofu to the simmering sauce and stir everything together until the tofu is coated in the sauce. Continue to cook the tofu and sauce together for a few minutes until the tofu is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened even more.

If you want to add some seafood to the recipe, you can use prawns or squid. Begin by heating a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add oil to the pan and once hot, add the seafood. Pan-fry the seafood for a few minutes until it's cooked through. Remove the seafood from the pan and set it aside. Once the tofu and sauce are ready, add the cooked seafood to the pan and stir everything together until the seafood is coated in the sauce. Continue to cook everything together for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened and the seafood is fully cooked.

Chinese chilli tofu is a delicious main course or appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. By following these cooking techniques, you can create a dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Chinese chilli tofu, there are many different options to choose from. Here are some suggestions to help you get started:

Accompaniments

Rice is a classic accompaniment to Chinese chilli tofu, and there are many different types to choose from. Steamed rice, egg fried rice, vegetable fried rice, and sticky rice are all great options. If you're looking for something a little different, you could also try serving your tofu with noodles or a salad.

Seafood is also a great addition to this dish. Prawns or scallops can be added to the recipe to give it a seafood twist.

Garnishing Tips

Garnishing your Chinese chilli tofu can add an extra layer of flavour and texture to the dish. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Spring onions: These can be finely sliced and sprinkled over the top of the tofu to add a fresh, oniony flavour.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled over the top of the tofu to add a nutty, crunchy texture.
• Coriander: Fresh coriander leaves can be chopped and sprinkled over the top of the tofu to add a fresh, herby flavour.

There are many different ways to serve Chinese chilli tofu. Whether you're looking for a classic accompaniment like rice or something a little more adventurous, there are plenty of options to choose from. Don't be afraid to experiment with different garnishes and accompaniments to find the perfect combination for you.

Nutritional Information

If you're looking for a tasty and healthy plant-based meal, then Chinese chilli tofu is an excellent choice. This dish is packed with protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and keeping you feeling full.

A 100-gram serving of chilli tofu contains approximately 140 calories, making it a low-calorie option that is perfect for those who are watching their weight. It is also vegan, which means that it is suitable for those who follow a plant-based diet.

Tofu is a great source of protein, and it is also low in fat and calories. It is made from soybeans, which are naturally high in protein and other essential nutrients. Tofu is also a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium, which are all important for maintaining good health.

To make this dish even more nutritious, you can add some seafood to it. Shrimp or squid are great options that will add some extra protein and flavour to the dish. Simply stir-fry the seafood with the tofu and vegetables, and you'll have a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion.

In summary, Chinese chilli tofu is a nutritious and tasty dish that is perfect for anyone who is looking for a healthy and satisfying meal. It is low in calories, high in protein, and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight or following a plant-based diet. Adding some seafood to the dish is also a great way to make it even more nutritious and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the secret to getting that perfect crispy texture for chilli tofu?

The secret to getting that perfect crispy texture for chilli tofu is to use firm tofu. Make sure to drain the tofu well before using it, and coat it in cornflour or cornstarch before frying it. This will create a crispy outer layer that will hold up well in the sauce.

Can you suggest a simple way to prepare chilli tofu at home?

Yes, a simple way to prepare chilli tofu at home is to cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and fry them until golden brown. Then, sauté garlic, ginger, and spring onions in a wok, add soy sauce, chilli sauce, and sugar, and then add the fried tofu. Toss everything together until the tofu is coated in the sauce, and you're done!

What are some traditional Chinese spices to include in a chilli tofu dish?

Some traditional Chinese spices to include in a chilli tofu dish are Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, and cinnamon. These spices can add depth and complexity to the flavour of the dish.

How do you create a rich gravy for chilli tofu?

To create a rich gravy for chilli tofu, you can add vegetable or chicken stock to the sauce. This will add depth and richness to the flavour, and also help to thicken the sauce. You can also add a cornstarch slurry to the sauce to thicken it even further.

Is there a way to make a healthier version of chilli tofu?

Yes, you can make a healthier version of chilli tofu by using less oil and sugar in the recipe. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of salt in the dish. Additionally, you can add more vegetables to the dish to increase its nutritional value.

Could you share tips on enhancing the flavour of tofu in Chinese cooking?

To enhance the flavour of tofu in Chinese cooking, you can marinate it in soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine before cooking. This will give the tofu a rich, savoury flavour. You can also add garlic, ginger, and other aromatics to the dish to add depth and complexity to the flavour.

As a suggestion, you can also add seafood to the dish. Prawns or squid are great options that can be added to the sauce towards the end of cooking. This will add a delicious seafood flavour to the dish and make it even more satisfying.