Description
A vibrant and flavorful Thai Basil Tofu Stir Fry made with crispy tofu cubes, fresh Thai basil, garlic, ginger, and a tangy-sweet sauce. This quick and easy stir fry delivers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a delicious vegetarian option for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Coating
- 8 oz extra-firm tofu (226 grams, cut into very small cubes)
- 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1.5 tablespoons oil (22 ml, avocado oil recommended)
Sauce
- 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce (10 ml)
- 3 teaspoons lime juice (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like sriracha, or adjust to taste)
- 1.5 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (5 ml)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 5-6 large garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 1 inch ginger (finely chopped)
- 1 large red pepper (sliced)
- 1/2 cup chopped Thai basil
Instructions
- Press Tofu: Press the tofu with a heavy object, such as a cast iron pan or mortar and pestle, for around 20 minutes to remove excess moisture and improve flavor absorption.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together dark soy sauce, lime juice, sriracha (or chosen hot sauce), brown sugar, and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
- Cube and Coat Tofu: After pressing, cut the tofu into very small cubes. In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, white pepper powder, and salt until evenly coated.
- Heat Pan and Cook Tofu: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add avocado oil once the pan is hot, then add the coated tofu cubes.
- Brown Tofu: Cook the tofu for about 7 minutes, flipping once or twice, until lightly browned and crisp on all sides.
- Add Aromatics and Pepper: Add the finely chopped garlic, ginger, and sliced red pepper to the pan. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the garlic and ginger start to change color.
- Combine Sauce: Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well to coat the tofu and vegetables evenly. Cook for about 30 seconds.
- Finish with Thai Basil: Remove the pan from heat, stir in the chopped Thai basil until just wilted and fragrant.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Thai basil and serve over jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is essential to remove moisture for better texture and flavor absorption.
- Adjust the hot sauce amount according to your preferred spice level.
- Using a cast iron skillet enhances the browning of tofu but any heavy-bottomed pan will work.
- Fresh Thai basil is key for authentic flavor; substitute with sweet basil if unavailable.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture of the tofu.
