Vegan Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry (Printer View)

Vibrant plant-based stir-fry with aromatic Thai basil, crisp vegetables, and perfectly seared tofu in savory sauce.

# Components:

→ Tofu

01 - 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cut into ¾-inch cubes

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced
03 - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
04 - 1 medium carrot, julienned
05 - 1 small red onion, sliced
06 - 3.5 oz snap peas, trimmed
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 small red chili, finely sliced (optional)

→ Sauce

09 - 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
10 - 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
11 - 1½ tablespoons maple syrup or coconut sugar
12 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
13 - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
14 - 1 tablespoon water

→ Stir-Fry & Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
16 - 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, loosely packed
17 - Lime wedges, for serving
18 - Cooked jasmine rice, to serve

# Method:

01 - Combine soy sauce, dark soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, black pepper, and water in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp on all sides, approximately 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
03 - Add remaining oil to the pan. Sauté garlic, red onion, and chili (if using) for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add bell peppers, carrot, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
05 - Return tofu to the pan. Pour sauce and toss everything to coat evenly. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
06 - Remove from heat and gently fold in Thai basil leaves until just wilted.
07 - Distribute over jasmine rice and garnish with lime wedges. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
  • Packed with Protein: Firm tofu provides a satisfying plant-based protein source.
  • Versatile: Easily adaptable with your favorite seasonal vegetables.
02 -
  • Extra Flavor: Marinate the tofu in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp cornstarch for 10 minutes before frying for a better crust and deeper taste.
  • Adjust Heat: For more spice, add extra red chili or a dash of chili flakes during the sauté step.
  • Basics: Always use fresh Thai basil rather than sweet Italian basil to maintain the authentic flavor profile.
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