Szechuan Tofu is a savory and spicy Asian-inspired dish. In less time than it takes for a dinner delivery, you can have this sizzling and sensational dish right in front of you. We promise that this recipe is ten times better than take-out!
Prep Time10 minutesmins
Cook Time12 minutesmins
Total Time22 minutesmins
Course: Lunch or Dinner
Cuisine: asian
Servings: 4
Calories: 189kcal
Author: Gina House | World of Vegan
Ingredients
16ouncesextra firm tofu
4tablespoonsvegetable oildivided
4teaspoonscornstarchor arrowroot powder
¼cupwater
3tablespoonssoy sauce
4teaspoonstoasted sesame oil
2teaspoonsmaple syrupor sweetener of choice
1½teaspoonsgarlic powder
¼teaspooncayenne pepperadjust to taste if you like spicy
2largescallionsfinely sliced
sesame seeds (black or white)to taste
toasted cashews to taste (optional)
sprinkle ofred pepper flakesto taste (optional)
Instructions
Pat tofu dry thoroughly and cut into even bite-sized cubes.
Into a cold nonstick saute or frying pan, add the cubed tofu and 2 tablespoons of the vegetable oil. Turn the heat to medium and allow to come to a sizzle and then cook for 6-7 minutes without moving the tofu.
In a small bowl, add the cornstarch and a few splashes of the water and stir. Then add the remaining water, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, garlic powder, and cayenne. Whisk well and set aside.
Once the tofu has nicely browned on the bottom, use a spatula to carefully flip the tofu cubes over and add the rest of the oil. The oil may “squitz,” so please be very careful. Fry for another 6-7 minutes, without moving the tofu. (The exact timing will depend on your particular cooktop and saucepan.)
When the tofu is browned nicely, transfer to a bowl or plate and set aside.
Put the pan back on the heat and pour in the sauce mixture. Let the sauce come to a simmer, constantly stirring. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
The moment the sauce starts to thicken, add the tofu cubes back in and mix well with the sauce. Turn off the heat, but keep the pan on the burner. Allow the tofu to marinate in the warm sauce for a couple of minutes more.
Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and roasted cashews and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Video
Notes
Notes:
Serve with steamed rice, noodles, and/or with a mixture of roasted and fresh vegetables.
Sauce Tip: Pour any extra sauce over rice and veggies. So good!
Dairy-free and gluten-free (if using tamari instead of soy sauce)