Discover how to make Vegan Kung Pao Tofu with this easy recipe. Enjoy a delicious, spicy, and healthy meal packed with protein-rich tofu and vibrant veggies. Perfect for vegans and flavour seekers alike!
Questa ricetta è disponibile anche in italiano
Most Chinese inspired recipes are a good way to pack plenty of veggies and protein in you diet. If you're a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine and enjoyed the bold flavours of my Kung Pao Cauliflower, you're going to love this version with tofu!
There are also several other dishes you might want to try that share a similar flair. For instance, consider whipping up some Thai Red Curry with Chickpeas as a vegetarian take on the classic chicken dish, featuring chickpeas in a tangy and aromatic sauce. Another great option is Chilli and Garlic Aubergine, which is stir-fried in a hot and garlicky sauce, providing a delightful kick. Sweet and Sour Tofu offers a lighter but equally aromatic experience, with crispy tofu tossed in a scrumptious sauce with pineapple. Lastly, Miso Ramen with Mushrooms combines rich, umami flavours with Puffed Tofu in a comforting noodle soup that's perfect for any season. These recipes not only promise a culinary journey through Asian flavours but also keep your meals exciting and varied.
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🌟Why Choose this Recipe
Speed: Ready in 30 minutes or less.
Simplicity: Few ingredients, simple steps.
Flavour: A savoury, slightly spicy experience that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Health Benefits: High in protein and low in calories.
🗒️Ingredient Overview
- Firm Tofu: The star of the dish, providing a meaty texture without the meat.
- Bell Peppers: Adds a crunchy, nutritious twist.
- Peanuts: For that classic Kung Pao crunch.
- Aromatic Base: Garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorn and green onions to build the flavour foundation.
- Sauce Ingredients: Soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar.
🔪 How to Make this Recipe
Prepare the Tofu:
Begin by pressing your tofu to remove excess water. This step is crucial as it helps the tofu better absorb the marinade and stay firm when cooking. If you're using vacuum sealed tofu (recommended), skip this step.
Break the tofu into bite size chunks or cut it into cubes.
Prepare the Marinade:
The marinade simply consists on a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil and Shaoxing wine.
Add the tofu to the marinade making sure it's fully coated. Then set aside for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Tofu:
Scoop the tofu out of the marinade juice (keep it to use it forward), and coast the pieces in corn starch. Arrange the tofu in the air fryer basket and spray it with some vegetable oil. Cook the bites in the air fryer at 200° C (390°F)for 10 minutes, shaking/flipping each piece half way through.
Make the Sauce:
Add to the leftover marinade the hoisin sauce, homemade chilli oil and brown sugar. Adjust the heat according to your preferences.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Heat a some vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Add minced garlic, chilli flakes and ginger until aromatic.
Add diced bell peppers and sauté until just tender but still crisp.
Combine and Cook:
Add the air fried tofu to the skillet, along with the prepared sauce.
Stir everything together and let simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully.
Sprinkle in roasted peanuts for a crunchy finish and a sprinkle of green onions for a pop of colour.
🥑Health Benefits
This Vegan Kung Pao Tofu isn't just tasty; it's also packed with nutrients. Tofu is a great source of protein and contains all nine essential amino acids. Vegetables like bell peppers offer vitamins C and A, which are important for immune health and vision.
🥡Storage
Kung Pao Tofu can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days in an air-tight container.
🍽️Serving Suggestions
Plate your Easy Kung Pao Tofu over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra green onions for added flavour and presentation. For those looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice also makes a fantastic substitute.
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