Tofu Fried Rice – A Flavorful Chinese-Style Vegetarian Delight
If you’re craving a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the flavors of tender tofu, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, look no further than this delicious Tofu Fried Rice recipe! This dish is an excellent choice for those seeking a vegetarian meal that’s both filling and satisfying. The combination of aromatic spices, fresh veggies, and crispy tofu creates a hearty and flavorful fried rice that pairs perfectly with Veg Manchurian or any other side of your choice. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat, this Tofu Fried Rice will undoubtedly steal the show.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Tofu (cut into pieces) | 200 grams |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Cardamom powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Green onions (finely chopped) | 4 |
| Green onion leaves (finely chopped) | 4 tbsp |
| Green bell pepper (chopped) | 1/2 |
| Button mushrooms (sliced) | 8 |
| Carrot (peeled and chopped) | 1 |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 5 cloves |
| Ginger garlic paste | 1 tbsp |
| Green chili sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | As needed for frying |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 60 minutes |
| Total Time | 80 minutes |
Servings
| Servings | 3 |
Cuisine
| Cuisine | Chinese |
Course
| Course | Lunch/Dinner |
Diet
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Instructions
To make the perfect Tofu Fried Rice, follow these easy-to-follow steps that guarantee a meal packed with flavors, textures, and colors.
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Begin by washing the rice thoroughly under running water. Soak the washed rice in water for about 15 minutes to allow it to soften.
- In a saucepan, add the soaked rice, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt. Cook the rice until it is half-done (don’t let it cook fully). Once done, drain the water, add a pinch of cardamom powder, and keep the rice aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu
- Heat oil in a pan or wok. Add the tofu pieces and fry them until they are golden brown on both sides. This process adds a lovely crispy texture to the tofu. Once fried, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, add a bit more oil and heat it up. Once hot, add finely chopped garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it releases its fragrant aroma.
- Next, add the chopped onions and green onions to the pan. Sauté them until they turn soft and translucent.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
- Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and mix it well with the sautéed onions. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to infuse the flavors.
- Now, add the chopped green bell pepper, carrot, and mushrooms to the pan. Cook the vegetables until they are tender but still crisp, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the Sauces and Seasoning
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the green chili sauce, soy sauce, and salt to the pan. Mix everything well to ensure the sauces coat the vegetables evenly.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Add the previously fried tofu pieces to the pan, followed by the cooked rice. Stir the mixture gently, ensuring the tofu, vegetables, and rice are well combined. Let the mixture cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Once everything is cooked and the flavors are well combined, remove the Tofu Fried Rice from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped green onion leaves for a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve this delicious Tofu Fried Rice hot with Veg Manchurian or any side dish of your choice for a perfect weekend meal.
Tips for the Perfect Tofu Fried Rice
- Rice Texture: It’s important not to overcook the rice, as it may turn mushy when stir-fried. Half-cooked rice gives the best texture for fried rice.
- Tofu Tip: For an even crispier tofu, you can press the tofu for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture before frying.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chili sauce based on your spice preference. You can also add chili flakes for an extra kick.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, corn, or even baby corn to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your fried rice.
This Tofu Fried Rice is a healthy, hearty, and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. The tofu adds a rich source of protein, while the colorful vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals, making it a balanced, flavorful dish. Serve it with your favorite accompaniment, and you’re sure to enjoy a fulfilling and delightful meal.
