15-Minutes Basil Tofu Stir Fry Recipe: Quick and Flavorful
This quick and easy 15-Minutes Basil Tofu Stir Fry is a delightful and nutritious meal that comes together quickly. It features tender tofu, rich in plant-based protein, sautéed alongside an array of vibrant, crisp vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. The fresh basil adds a fragrant touch, elevating the dish’s classic Thai-inspired flavors.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this stir-fry satisfies your taste buds and provides a healthy boost of nutrients. Serve it over fluffy steamed rice, or mix it with your favorite noodles for a complete meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and can be easily customized with your choice of vegetables or additional spices. Enjoy a delicious taste of Thailand in just 15 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes.
- Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein, veggies, and fresh herbs.
- Flavorful and Versatile: A savory, sweet, and spicy blend.
Pro Tips for Perfect Basil Tofu Stir Fry
- Press the Tofu Well: This step ensures the tofu gets crispy when cooked.
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying works best with high heat for quick, even cooking.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Use Thai basil if possible for authentic flavor.
- Adjust the Spice: Add more chili or reduce it based on your heat preference.
- Prep Everything First: Stir-frying is fast; prepare all ingredients before starting.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve over jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
- Noodles: Toss with rice noodles or soba noodles for a hearty dish.
- Side Dish: Pair with spring rolls or a light soup for a full Thai-inspired dinner.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs About Basil Tofu Stir Fry
1. Can I use a different protein?
Substitute tofu with tempeh, seitan, or chicken for non-vegan options.
2. What if I don’t have Thai basil?
Sweet basil works, but you can also use fresh cilantro or spinach for a milder alternative.
3. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots are great additions.
4 . Can I freeze this dish?
The tofu texture may change when frozen, but the dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet.
Why This Recipe Works
Combining crispy tofu, fresh basil, and vibrant vegetables creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. The quick preparation time and minimal cleanup make this stir fry perfect for busy nights while delivering restaurant-quality results at home.
Conclusion
This 15-minute Basil Tofu Stir Fry is a flavorful, healthy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Packed with vibrant veggies, protein-rich tofu, and the fragrant aroma of fresh basil, it’s a quick dinner solution you’ll love. Try it today and savor the delicious simplicity of homemade stir fry!
Quick and Flavorful: 15-Minute Basil Tofu Stir Fry Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup chopped bok choy
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
For the sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the tofu block between two clean kitchen towels or paper towels, then place something heavy on top (like a cast-iron skillet or a few heavy books) and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- While the tofu is pressed, prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sriracha sauce in a small bowl.
- Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into cubes and toss with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated tofu to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- Add a little more oil, if needed, in the same skillet; add minced garlic and ginger, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Then add sliced onion, bell pepper, and bok choy. Stir fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Return the tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil leaves.
- Serve the basil tofu stir fry hot over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!