30 Minute Black Pepper Tofu: Quick & Delicious
Short introduction
Black Pepper Tofu is a flavorful and quick dish that comes together in just 30 minutes! This stir-fry is packed with protein from tofu and features a savory, peppery sauce that brings everything to life. It’s a great option for a busy weeknight meal or a delightful vegetarian dish that everyone will enjoy.
Why you’ll love it
This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers numerous benefits. Tofu is a fantastic source of protein and is low in calories, making this dish healthy and satisfying. The addition of garlic and ginger provides extra flavor and health benefits, while the vegetables add fiber and nutrients. Plus, this dish is easily customizable and can fit various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 cup broccoli or bok choy
- Cooked rice for serving
Substitutions & key variations
You can easily customize this Black Pepper Tofu recipe based on the ingredients you have on hand. If you don’t have firm tofu, you can substitute it with extra-firm tofu for a firmer texture. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also swap the broccoli or bok choy for other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. If you want a spicier kick, add some chili flakes or fresh chili.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare the tofu
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, which helps it brown better. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Cook the tofu
In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, which typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 3: Add aromatics
Once the tofu is browned, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry them together for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Season the dish
After the garlic and ginger have cooked, sprinkle in the black pepper and pour in the soy sauce. Mix everything together well, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 5: Add vegetables
In the last few minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli or bok choy. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant, around 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Finally, serve your delicious black pepper tofu over a bed of cooked rice. Enjoy!
Success tips
- Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the tofu to get that golden brown color.
- Texture: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the tofu in batches if needed to achieve the ideal texture.
- Common mistakes: Avoid skipping the pressing step on the tofu, as this will help prevent it from being soggy.
How to serve
Black Pepper Tofu is best served hot over a bed of cooked rice. You can garnish it with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a nice touch. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tofu and the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the vegetables fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. Is this recipe spicy?
No, the dish is not inherently spicy, but you can add some chili flakes or fresh chili for an extra kick if you prefer.
3. Can I use other proteins instead of tofu?
Yes, you can substitute tofu with chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply replace the soy sauce with tamari.
5. How can I increase the protein content?
You can increase the protein by adding more tofu or pairing the dish with edamame or beans.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Tofu is a versatile source of plant-based protein, low in calories and high in calcium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish healthier.
Conclusion
This 30 Minute Black Pepper Tofu is a quick, healthy, and tasty meal that anyone can whip up in no time. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll want to make this recipe again and again. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!
Links to related recipes
- Quick Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry
- Simple Vegetable Fried Rice
- Garlic and Ginger Broccoli
- Spicy Tofu Tacos
Black Pepper Tofu
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu Can substitute with extra-firm tofu for a firmer texture.
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 cup broccoli or bok choy Can substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
- as needed serving Cooked rice For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
Cooking
- Add the tofu cubes to the pan and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the black pepper and pour in the soy sauce, mixing everything well.
- Toss in the broccoli or bok choy and cook until tender but vibrant, around 3 to 5 minutes.
Serving
- Serve the black pepper tofu hot over a bed of cooked rice.