Lemongrass Flavored Tofu Fried Rice Recipe
Description:
The Lemongrass Flavored Tofu Fried Rice is an aromatic variation of the traditional fried rice. The rice is infused with the delightful fragrance of lemongrass and the subtle warmth of ginger, which lends a unique twist to the usual vegetable fried rice. Coconut milk enhances the flavor, and the tofu cubes add a satisfying texture, making this dish not only flavorful but also wholesome. A perfect combination of caramelized onions, red bell peppers, and spring onions adds both color and crunch to the dish. Whether as a stand-alone lunch or paired with appetizers like Gobi Manchurian and Spring Rolls, this dish promises to please your taste buds!
Cuisine: Asian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
For the Rice:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati rice | 1 cup |
| Coconut milk | 1 cup |
| Lemon Grass | 2 stalks |
| Ginger (crushed) | 1 inch |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Stir Fry:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic (chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Ginger (chopped) | 1 inch |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Red Bell pepper (Capsicum, chopped) | 1 |
| Green Chilli (chopped) | 1 |
| Spring Onion Greens (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Green Chilli Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | As required |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Instructions:
-
Cook the Rice:
Begin by preparing the rice. In a pressure cooker, combine the Basmati rice, coconut milk, and 1/2 cup of water. Add the chopped lemon grass, crushed ginger, and turmeric powder for that aromatic kick. Pressure cook for about 2 whistles, then turn off the heat. Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker. Remove the lemongrass stalks and crushed ginger from the rice and fluff the rice using a fork. Set the rice aside. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat some oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped ginger and garlic, sautéing them until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Then, add the chopped onion and cook until they turn translucent and soft. -
Add the Bell Peppers:
Add the chopped red bell pepper (capsicum) and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle a little salt and add the chopped green chillies. Continue to sauté until the bell peppers soften but still retain a slight crunch. -
Incorporate the Tofu:
Add the cubed tofu pieces into the pan and toss them gently with the vegetables. Stir in black pepper powder, soy sauce, and green chilli sauce, ensuring that the tofu is well coated and the flavors are evenly distributed. -
Mix the Flavored Rice:
Gently add the cooked lemongrass-flavored rice to the wok with the vegetables and tofu. Toss everything together to combine the rice and vegetables thoroughly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. -
Final Touch:
Once everything is well mixed, finish by adding the chopped spring onion greens for a fresh, vibrant touch. Toss lightly to combine. -
Serve:
Serve the Lemongrass Flavored Tofu Fried Rice warm, paired with your favorite side dishes such as Gobi Manchurian and Spring Rolls to create a delightful and fulfilling meal.
Tips for Perfect Fried Rice:
- Ensure the rice is slightly cooled before adding to the stir fry to avoid it becoming mushy.
- You can substitute tofu with tempeh or paneer for a different protein source.
- Adjust the quantity of green chilli sauce based on your spice tolerance.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
Lemongrass Flavored Tofu Fried Rice is a delightful vegetarian dish that brings an exotic flair to your usual fried rice. With the perfect balance of spices, tofu, and aromatic rice, it’s an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying lunch.
