Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe

Tofu: Firm tofu is ideal for stir-frying as it holds its shape and absorbs flavors well.

Soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich sauce that adds depth to the dish.

Hoisin sauce: A sweet and savory sauce that enhances the overall flavor.

Vegetable oil: Used for cooking and sautéing the ingredients.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor to the stir-fry.

Red bell pepper: Provides a sweet, crunchy texture and vibrant color.

Green bell pepper: Adds a slightly bitter, crisp contrast to the red bell pepper.

Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves impart a fragrant, slightly sweet flavor.

Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, creating a glossy finish.

When pressing tofu, use a tofu press or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes. This will help remove excess water, allowing the tofu to absorb more of the soy sauce and hoisin sauce, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

• firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firmer texture and a nutty flavor, making it a great alternative for those who want a different texture and taste.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar umami flavor.

• hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce offers a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile, making it a good replacement for hoisin sauce.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and is great for high-heat cooking.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic and can be used in similar quantities.

• red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers have a similar sweetness and crunch, making them a suitable alternative.

• green bell pepper - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini offers a different texture but can add a similar freshness and color to the dish.

• fresh basil leaves - Substitute with fresh mint leaves: Fresh mint leaves provide a different but refreshing flavor that can complement the dish well.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent and works similarly to cornstarch, making it a good alternative.

• Allow the Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• Transfer the cooled stir-fry into an airtight container. For best results, use a glass container to avoid any potential staining from the soy sauce and hoisin sauce.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The stir-fry will keep well for up to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

• For freezing, portion the stir-fry into individual servings. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need, reducing waste.

• Place each portion into a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

• Label each container or bag with the date and contents. The stir-fry can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• When ready to eat, thaw the stir-fry in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture of the tofu and vegetables.

• Reheat the thawed stir-fry in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to help revive the sauce and prevent sticking.

• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave. Place the stir-fry in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

• For a fresh twist, add a handful of fresh basil leaves just before serving to enhance the aroma and flavor.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the leftover Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tofu and bell peppers are heated through. This method helps retain the stir-fry's original texture and flavor.

• Microwave Method: Place the leftover stir-fry in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. If needed, heat for an additional 1-2 minutes until fully warmed. This method is quick and convenient but may slightly alter the texture of the tofu.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover stir-fry evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the tofu and vegetables are heated thoroughly. This method is great for reheating larger portions and maintaining a crispy texture.

• Steaming Method: Place the leftover stir-fry in a heatproof dish that fits into a steamer basket. Fill a pot with a couple of inches of water and bring to a simmer. Place the steamer basket over the pot, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the tofu tender.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stir-fry in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method can help restore some of the original crispiness of the tofu.

• Tofu press: used to remove excess water from the tofu, ensuring it absorbs more flavor and achieves a better texture.

• Cutting board: provides a stable surface for slicing the tofu and bell peppers.

• Knife: essential for cutting the tofu into cubes and slicing the bell peppers.

• Mixing bowl: used to combine the tofu with soy sauce and hoisin sauce.

• Pan: used for stir-frying the tofu and vegetables.

• Spatula: helps in stirring and flipping the tofu and vegetables while cooking.

• Measuring spoons: ensures accurate measurement of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, vegetable oil, and cornstarch.

• Garlic press: makes mincing garlic quick and easy.

• Small bowl: used to mix cornstarch with water if you choose to thicken the sauce.

• Rice cooker: convenient for cooking rice to serve with the stir-fry.

• Serving dish: used to present the finished stir-fry.

Press tofu in advance: Press the tofu ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save time during cooking.

Pre-slice vegetables: Slice the bell peppers and mince the garlic beforehand and store them in airtight containers.

Use pre-made sauces: Opt for store-bought soy sauce and hoisin sauce to cut down on preparation time.

Cook rice simultaneously: Start cooking the rice while you prepare the stir-fry to have everything ready at the same time.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.