Garlic Tofu and Vegetable Stir fry
Garlic Tofu & Vegetable Stir fry
Ingredients:
For the tofu:
One 14-ounce block extra-firm tofu
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon arrowroot starch (or cornstarch), divided
Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
2–3 tablespoons avocado or sesame oil
Vegetables:
1 med head broccoli cut into pieces
1 carrot, peeled and sliced
½ onion, sliced
4 ounces fresh shiitake mushrooms sliced
For the sauce:
4 tablespoons soy sauce
4 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
2 teaspoons mild vinegar (like apple cider, white wine, or unseasoned rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 small garlic cloves, crushed, grated, or finely minced
2-inch knob ginger, peeled, and grated or minced (about 2 tablespoons)
Sesame seeds and scallions, for serving
Start by pressing the tofu—drain tofu, place it on a plate, then top with another plate or cutting board, and weigh it down with something heavy (like a couple of cans), to squeeze out as much water as possible. Let stand for about 15 minutes, periodically draining off the excess water.
Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes and place in a bowl. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon arrowroot, and pinches of salt and pepper. Gently toss with your hands to coat. Then sprinkle with another tablespoon of arrowroot and toss again.
Heat enough oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat to evenly cover the bottom. Add the tofu in a single layer, making sure the cubes aren’t touching; depending on the size of your pan, you may need to brown them in two batches. Cook undisturbed until a golden crust forms on the bottom, about 5 minutes. Then flip with tongs and cook the other sides, browning 3-4 sides in total.
While the tofu is cooking, chop vegetables in bite-sized pieces.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, maple syrup, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and the remaining teaspoon of arrowroot.
When the tofu is done, if there is too much oil left in the pan, transfer tofu to a plate and drain the oil. Then return tofu to the pan.
Add the vegetable mixture, stirring for 1-2 minutes until broccoli is bright green.
Add the sauce mixture to the pan and quickly toss until it thickens and coats the cubes. Turn the heat off.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions. Serve immediately.
