Description
A vibrant and flavorful Thai Basil Tofu recipe that features crispy tofu cubes stir-fried with garlic, Thai chilies, bell peppers, and a savory-sweet sauce, finished with fresh basil leaves. This vegetarian main dish is perfect served over steamed rice for a delicious plant-based meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 14 ounces firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
Sauce and Stir-fry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Thai chilies or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce or vegetarian oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (or regular basil)
Instructions
- Prepare Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same pan and sauté the minced garlic and chilies for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, water, and black pepper. Pour the sauce into the pan and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Tofu and Basil: Return the tofu to the pan and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves until just wilted.
- Serve: Serve immediately over steamed rice to enjoy the full flavor and texture of the dish.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is important to help it crisp up and absorb the sauce.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies according to your taste.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of fish sauce if not keeping it vegetarian.
