Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir Fry

The perfect blend of tangy and sweet, Sweet & Sour Tofu Delight is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food while being healthy and satisfying. This vibrant recipe combines crispy tofu with colorful vegetables and a luscious sweet and sour sauce, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. Tofu, often regarded as a blank canvas, absorbs flavors beautifully, allowing it to shine in this delicious dish.

Discover the delightful flavors of Sweet & Sour Tofu Delight with this easy and healthy recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish features crispy tofu paired with vibrant vegetables and a luscious, tangy sauce. Learn how to press tofu for the best texture, sauté your ingredients to perfection, and craft a balanced sauce that marries sweet and sour notes. Enjoy a nutritious meal that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed

2 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup rice vinegar

1/4 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu:

- Begin by pressing the tofu to eliminate excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels, then place a heavy object (like a cast-iron pan) on top. Allow it to press for about 15 minutes for optimal texture.

- Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a mixing bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated for a crispy finish.

Fry the Tofu:

- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the tofu.

- Carefully add the coated tofu cubes to the skillet in a single layer. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, transfer the crispy tofu to a plate and set aside.

Stir-fry the Vegetables:

- Return the skillet to the heat and add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and stir-fry for 2 minutes until it becomes translucent.

- Introduce the sliced bell peppers, minced garlic, and freshly minced ginger into the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, ensuring the vegetables remain tender but firm, achieving a delightful crunch.

Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and sesame oil until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved, creating a harmonious sauce.

Combine Ingredients:

- Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Add the pineapple chunks and stir until all ingredients are coated evenly.

- Gently fold in the crispy tofu, making sure it mixes well with the sauce and vegetables. Allow it to cook together for another 2-3 minutes so the tofu can absorb some flavors from the sauce.

Serve:

- Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an appealing presentation.

- Serve the delightful sweet and sour tofu hot over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa for a satisfying and delicious meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: For a vibrant look, serve in a large bowl or individual plates, and drizzle a little extra sesame oil over the top right before serving. Arrange fresh pineapple pieces around the base for added appeal.