Spicy Sesame Sweet & Sour Vegetables with Tofu

 

Ingredients (Serves 4):

Vegetables:

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 orange bell pepper, sliced

1/2 head broccoli, cut into florets

1 red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed

1 cup baby corn, halved lengthwise

Sauce:

3 tablespoons soy sauce

3 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust for desired spice level)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/4 cup pineapple juice

Tofu:

14 oz block firm tofu, drained and pressed

1 tablespoon cornstarch

Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate tofu: Cut tofu into cubes and toss with cornstarch.
2. Cook tofu: Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Fry tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy. Set aside.
3. Prepare vegetables: Wash and prepare all vegetables according to the recipe.
4. Make sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, sesame oil, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Stir in pineapple juice until smooth.
5. Cook vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of oil in the pan used for tofu. Add bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes, then add onion and cook for another minute.
6. Add sauce and vegetables: Pour the sauce into the pan with vegetables. Bring to a simmer and add broccoli, sugar snap peas, and baby corn. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
7. Finish: Add cooked tofu back to the pan and toss to combine. Heat for another minute to warm through.
8. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro (optional).

Tips:

• Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preferences. Other options include carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the tofu and add an extra cup of vegetables.
• If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of water or pineapple juice to thin it out.
• Serve this dish with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Nutrients:

This recipe is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the vegetables. Tofu adds protein and calcium, making it a balanced and nutritious meal.