Description
This Sweet and Sour Tofu features crispy tofu cubes in a vibrant sauce with fresh vegetables and pineapple, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Served over fluffy rice, it’s a satisfying vegetarian meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place a heavy object on top to press out excess moisture for about 15-20 minutes.
- Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and toss with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced red and green bell peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in the pineapple chunks.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Adjust with water if too thick.
- Gently fold the crispy tofu back into the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and absorb flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the sweet and sour tofu over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch.
Notes
- For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, but the tofu may lose some crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes