Vegetable and tofu teriyaki stir-fry – a classic vegetarian dish that’s bursting with savory-sweet flavors and vibrant colors! Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is a must-try. It’s incredibly easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
A Symphony of Flavors: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stir-fry isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it perfect for using up those odds and ends in your fridge. The star of the show, however, is the tofu. Marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce and pan-fried to golden perfection, it adds a wonderful meaty texture and savory depth that perfectly complements the sweetness of the sauce and the freshness of the vegetables.
Ingredients: A Rainbow on Your Plate
For this recipe, you’ll need:
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons sake (or substitute with water)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 (14-ounce) block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup snow peas
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Substitutions:
- Don’t have mirin? You can substitute it with 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup mixed with 3 tablespoons of water.
- Can’t find sake? Simply use water as a replacement.
Tools of the Trade:
- One large skillet or wok
- One small saucepan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowls
Let’s Get Cooking: Your Step-by-Step Guide
1. Creating the Teriyaki Magic:
- In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and grated ginger.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Set aside.
2. Preparing the Tofu:
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. You can use a tofu press or simply wrap the tofu block in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 30 minutes.
- Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Stir-Frying Time:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the tofu cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
4. The Vegetable Medley:
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet.
- Add the broccoli florets, carrots, bell pepper, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Bringing It All Together:
- Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
- Add the cooked tofu back to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Cook for another minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat all the ingredients.
6. Ready to Serve:
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve your delicious vegetable and tofu teriyaki stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips and Tricks from Our Kitchen to Yours:
- Pressing the tofu is essential: Don’t skip this step! Pressing removes excess water from the tofu, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the marinade and crisp up beautifully when cooked.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, simply reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia.
- Get creative with vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Mushrooms, bok choy, and snap peas would all be delicious additions.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables: The key to a great stir-fry is to keep the vegetables crisp-tender. Overcooked vegetables can become mushy and lose their vibrant color.
Presentation Matters:
Serve your vibrant stir-fry in a bowl for a casual meal or arrange it on a platter for a more elegant presentation. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and a side of fluffy white rice complete the dish.
FAQs:
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I prepare this stir-fry in advance?
You can definitely prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the vegetables, press the tofu, and make the teriyaki sauce. Store everything separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
What can I serve with teriyaki stir-fry?
This stir-fry pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. For a heartier meal, serve it with a side of quinoa or brown rice.
A Delicious Journey Awaits:
There you have it – a simple yet incredibly flavorful vegetable and tofu teriyaki stir-fry that’s sure to become a family favorite! Now it’s your turn to try it out. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations and tag us on social media; we’d love to see your delicious masterpieces!
For more delicious and easy vegetarian recipes, explore our website and embark on a flavorful culinary journey with Family Cuisine!
