Description
A delicious and hearty Asian-inspired main course featuring crispy black pepper tofu and tender cauliflower stir-fried with aromatic garlic, ginger, and a savory, slightly spicy sauce. Perfect for a vegetarian and dairy-free meal, this dish is full of flavor and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Vegetables
- 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Aromatics
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (preferably very coarse)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. Toss the tofu cubes lightly with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Toss Cauliflower with Cornstarch: In a separate bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with cornstarch until they have a light coating.
- Fry the Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu cubes in batches until they turn golden and crisp on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Cook the Cauliflower: If needed, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet. Add the cauliflower florets and stir-fry until tender and just beginning to brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the cauliflower and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, freshly ground black pepper, and water.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook and stir occasionally until the sauce slightly thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Tofu and Sauce: Return the fried tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat the tofu and cauliflower evenly with the sauce.
- Finish and Garnish: Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and give it a final toss. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use very coarse black pepper for the best flavor and a nice kick.
- This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the savory sauce.
- For an extra layer of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Press tofu well to ensure it crisps up nicely when fried.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Inspired
