Kung Pao Tofu is a tasty dish that brings the flavors of Chinese cooking right to your kitchen. Imagine soft tofu cubes mixed with crunchy peanuts, fresh veggies, and a sauce that's the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy. You don't have to be a master chef to make this dish. All you need are some basic ingredients and a wok or a large pan.
Plus, it's a great way to eat more veggies and plant-based protein. Whether you're a tofu fan or new to it, this dish is an easy way to impress your friends and family at dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
Firstly, this recipe is super flexible. If you're missing an ingredient or two, don't sweat it. You can switch up the vegetables or even the nuts. The star of the dish is the sauce, and it's forgiving. That means you can adjust the sweetness or spiciness to suit your taste. The tofu soaks up all the flavors, making each bite a little party in your mouth.
Secondly, Kung Pao Tofu is both healthy and filling. Tofu is a good source of plant-based protein and has very little fat. The peanuts add some healthy fats, and the veggies bring in fiber and vitamins. You get a balanced meal that's high in nutrients but not in calories. Even if you're not a vegetarian, this dish is a tasty way to cut down on meat without losing out on flavor or satisfaction.
Ingredients
Firm Tofu - This adds the protein. Substitute: Tempeh or seitan.
Bell Peppers - Adds color and vitamins. Substitute: Carrots.
Garlic - Gives flavor. Substitute: Garlic powder.
Peanuts - Adds crunch. Substitute: Cashews.
Soy Sauce - Adds saltiness and umami. Substitute: Tamari for gluten-free.
Tips
- Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove water.
- Use a non-stick pan for easier cooking.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less dried chili peppers.
- Fresh vegetables like bell peppers should be crisp, not soggy.
- Cook tofu until it's golden for better texture.
How to Serve
Kung Pao Tofu is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. It's hearty enough to be the main course and yet light enough not to make you feel stuffed.
- With Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
- Noodles: You can also serve this dish over chow mein or rice noodles for a twist.
- Salad: For a lighter option, serve it atop a green salad.
Similar Recipes
Kung Pao Tofu
Ingredients
- 1 block Firm Tofu pressed and cubed
- 1 cup Bell Peppers diced
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- ¼ cup Peanuts unsalted
- ¼ cup Soy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- ¼ cup Water
- 1-2 dried Chili Peppers optional for heat
Instructions
- Press tofu for 30 minutes. Cut into cubes.
- Heat 1tablespoons oil in a pan. Add tofu. Cook until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add 1 tablespoons oil. Sauté garlic and bell peppers.
- Add peanuts and dried chili peppers (if using).
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and water. Stir well.
- Add tofu back to the pan. Pour sauce mixture.
- Stir and cook until sauce thickens.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
- Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove water.
- Use a non-stick pan for easier cooking.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less dried chili peppers.
- Fresh vegetables like bell peppers should be crisp, not soggy.
- Cook tofu until it's golden for better texture.