Kung Pao Tofu Delight is a tasty vegetarian alternative to the classic Chinese dish. This aromatic and flavorful dish combines tender tofu with veggies in a spicy-sweet Kung Pao sauce, served with a crunch of peanuts. Packed with protein and plenty of colorful vegetables, it's a healthy and satisfying meal that's sure to impress.
Photos of Kung Pao Tofu Recipe
The main ingredients in this dish are tofu, soy sauce, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, scallions, zucchini, bell peppers, rice vinegar, dry sherry, brown sugar, sambal oelek, sesame oil, and peanuts. Most of these items are common in Asian cooking. However, sambal oelek, a spicy chili paste, might not be readily available in all supermarkets. You can substitute it with another chili paste or sauce if needed. Also, dry sherry is used in cooking for its unique flavor, if you don't have any, you can use dry white wine or chicken broth.
Ingredients for Kung Pao Tofu Delight
Extra firm tofu: This is the main protein source in the dish. The 'extra firm' variety holds up well during cooking.
Soy sauce: It's an essential ingredient in Chinese cooking, providing umami and saltiness.
Cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent for the sauce.
Ginger: It provides a spicy, aromatic flavor.
Garlic: Garlic gives the dish a pungent, savory taste.
Scallions: They are used for their mild onion-like flavor.
Zucchini and red bell peppers: These add color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.
Unseasoned rice vinegar: It adds tanginess to the sauce.
Dry sherry: It's used for its distinctive flavor.
Brown sugar: It provides sweetness to balance out the spicy and salty flavors.
Sambal Oelek: This is a spicy chili paste that adds heat to the dish.
Sesame oil: It's used for its intense, nutty flavor.
Peanuts: They provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
One reader, Esra Dupree says:
This kung pao tofu delight is a game-changer! The tofu is perfectly crispy and the sauce is bursting with flavor. The combination of zucchini and red bell peppers adds a delightful crunch. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and healthy meal.
Key Techniques for Preparing Kung Pao Tofu Delight
How to press tofu: Place the tofu on a tea towel or paper towels, cover with another towel, and gently press to remove excess water.
How to marinate tofu: Combine soy sauce and cornstarch in a small bowl, whisk to combine, and pour over the tofu. Gently flip the cubes to ensure all sides are covered in the marinade.
How to make the sauce: In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, water, cornstarch, vinegar, sherry, brown sugar, and sambal. Whisk to combine.
How to fry tofu: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Carefully add the tofu and fry for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping every minute to brown all sides.
How to sauté vegetables: Add sesame oil to the pan, then add ginger, garlic, and scallion whites. Sauté for about 30 seconds before adding the zucchini and peppers.
How to thicken the sauce: Cook the tofu and vegetables in the sauce, stirring often, for about 2 to 4 minutes or until thickened.
How to serve: Sprinkle peanuts and scallion greens on top and serve immediately.
How To Make Kung Pao Tofu
A delicious and healthy makeover on the classic Chinese takeout dish, kung pao tofu is made with stir-fried tofu and fresh veggies in sweet and sour sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 14ozextra firm tofu,(1 pkg), drained
- ¼cupsoy sauce,plus 2 tbsp, reduced sodium or gluten-free
- 3tbspcornstarch,divided
- 1ginger,(2-inch piece), minced
- 2clovesgarlic,minced
- 2medium scallions,chopped, whites and green separated
- 2medium zucchini,quartered lengthwise cut ½-inch cubes
- 2medium red bell peppers,cut 1-inch cubes
- 2tbspunseasoned rice vinegar
- 2tbspdry sherry
- 1tbspbrown sugar
- 3tspSambal Oelek,(fresh ground chili paste*)
- 2tbsptoasted sesame oil,plus 1 tsp, divided
- 2tbsplightly salted peanuts,chopped
Instructions
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Place tofu on a tea towel or paper towels. Cover with another towel and gently press tofu to get rid of excess water.
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Transfer to cutting board, flip on its side and slice in half lengthwise. Flip it back over to lay flat on the cutting board and cut into 32 equal cubes.
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Place in a medium size shallow container so the cubes can lay in an even layer.
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In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Whisk to combine and then pour over tofu. Gently flip cubes to make sure all sides are covered in marinade. Allow sitting while you make the sauce.
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In a medium bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup of soy sauce, ½ cup of water, the remaining 1 tablespoon cornstarch, vinegar, sherry, brown sugar, and Sambal. Whisk to combine.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large deep skillet or wok over medium heat. Carefully add the tofu (the oil may splatter).
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Fry the tofu for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping every minute or so to brown all sides. Transfer to a plate.
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Add the remaining teaspoon of sesame oil to the pan then add ginger, garlic, and scallion whites. Sauté for about 30 seconds.
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Increase heat to high and add the zucchini and peppers. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring until slightly cooked, then add the tofu and sauce.
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Cook, stirring often to combine, for about 2 to 4 minutes or until thickened.
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To serve sprinkle peanuts and scallion greens on top and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
*For an extra spicy preference, use 3 teaspoons of Sambal Oelek (fresh ground chili paste) in step 5.
Nutrition
- Calories: 335.42kcal
- Fat: 18.44g
- Saturated Fat: 2.71g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.86g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.37g
- Carbohydrates: 25.01g
- Fiber: 5.63g
- Sugar: 8.03g
- Protein: 20.40g
- Sodium: 948.58mg
- Calcium: 719.15mg
- Potassium: 817.80mg
- Iron: 3.86mg
- Vitamin A: 119.61µg
- Vitamin C: 97.79mg
Expert Tip for Perfecting Kung Pao Tofu Delight
When frying the tofu, make sure to flip it frequently to ensure all sides are evenly browned. This not only gives the tofu a nice texture, but also helps it to absorb the flavors of the sauce more effectively. Additionally, when adding the tofu back into the pan with the vegetables and sauce, be sure to stir gently to avoid breaking the tofu cubes.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Tofu Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the tofu and vegetables in advance to cut down on cooking time.
Organize ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the ginger, garlic, and vegetables for the recipe.
Multi-task: While the tofu is marinating, prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables to save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Kung Pao Tofu Recipe
extra firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firmer texture and nuttier flavor, making it a great alternative to tofu in this dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a rich umami flavor, perfect for seasoning the dish.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder works as a great thickening agent and is a suitable substitute for cornstarch in this recipe.
ginger - Substitute with galangal: Galangal has a similar flavor profile to ginger but with a more citrusy and piney taste, adding a unique twist to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, complementing the other ingredients in the dish.
scallions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for scallions in this recipe.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for zucchini in this dish.
red bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers provide a mild heat and earthy flavor, adding a unique twist to the dish.
unseasoned rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers a slightly fruity and tangy flavor, serving as a good alternative to rice vinegar.
dry sherry - Substitute with mirin: Mirin has a sweet and tangy flavor, similar to dry sherry, and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar provides a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor, making it a suitable replacement for brown sugar.
sambal oelek - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha offers a spicy kick and tangy flavor, serving as a good alternative to sambal oelek.
toasted sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a nutty flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for toasted sesame oil in this recipe.
lightly salted peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews offer a creamy texture and nutty flavor, making them a great alternative to peanuts in this dish.
Plating Ideas for a Delightful Tofu Dish
Elevate the tofu cubes: Gently stack the tofu cubes on top of each other to create a visually appealing tower on the plate, showcasing the texture and form of the tofu.
Artful drizzle: Use a squeeze bottle to create an artful drizzle of the Kung Pao sauce on the plate, adding a touch of elegance and precision to the presentation.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Arrange the stir-fried zucchini and red bell peppers in a visually appealing manner, creating a colorful and vibrant backdrop for the tofu dish.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle the toasted peanuts and scallion greens with precision, ensuring an even distribution of garnishes to enhance the overall aesthetic of the dish.
Balance and symmetry: Focus on achieving balance and symmetry in the plating, ensuring that each element of the dish is thoughtfully arranged to create a visually stunning presentation.
Use negative space: Embrace the use of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out, creating a visually striking presentation that highlights the key components of the Kung Pao Tofu Delight.
Incorporate Asian-inspired elements: Consider incorporating decorative elements such as bamboo leaves or edible flowers to infuse the presentation with Asian-inspired flair, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the dish.
Precision with sauce placement: Pay attention to the placement of the Kung Pao sauce, ensuring that it enhances the visual appeal of the dish without overwhelming the other elements.
Focus on plate composition: Carefully consider the composition of the plate, arranging the components in a manner that draws the eye and creates a sense of harmony and balance.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the finer details, such as wiping the edges of the plate for a clean presentation and ensuring that every element is thoughtfully placed to showcase the artistry of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Kung Pao Tofu
- Cutting board: A flat surface for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Knife: Used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Skillet or Wok: Used for frying and sautéing ingredients.
- Small bowl: Used for mixing and combining smaller amounts of ingredients.
- Medium bowl: Used for mixing and combining moderate amounts of ingredients.
- Large deep skillet or Wok: Used for cooking larger quantities of food and for stir-frying.
Storing and Freezing Kung Pao Tofu Delight
- Let the kung pao tofu cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days.
- If you want to freeze the dish, transfer the cooled kung pao tofu to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- When properly stored, frozen kung pao tofu can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat, thaw the frozen kung pao tofu in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, reheat the dish in a skillet or wok over medium heat until it's heated through and the sauce is bubbling. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to help reconstitute the sauce.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed kung pao tofu in the microwave. Place the dish in a microwave-safe container, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through.
- Keep in mind that the tofu may lose some of its crispiness after being frozen and reheated, but the bold flavors of the dish will still be delicious.
Reheating Leftover Kung Pao Tofu Delight
Stovetop method: heat a small amount of sesame oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover kung pao tofu and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to restore the crispy texture of the tofu and revive the flavors of the vegetables.
Microwave method: place the leftover kung pao tofu in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. While this method is quick and convenient, the tofu may become slightly softer compared to the stovetop method.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover kung pao tofu to an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method is ideal if you have larger quantities of leftovers and want to reheat them all at once.
Steaming method: place the leftover kung pao tofu in a heat-proof dish and set it in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the dish and prevents the tofu from becoming too dry.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the dish well before serving to redistribute the sauce and flavors evenly. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to thin it out and restore its original consistency.
Interesting Trivia About Kung Pao Tofu Delight
The Kung Pao Tofu Delight recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to the traditional Kung Pao Chicken. It's a great source of plant-based protein and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables. This dish is a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and nutty flavors, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Plus, tofu is a great source of essential nutrients such as iron and calcium, making it a nutritious choice for vegetarians and vegans. So, next time you're craving Chinese takeout, consider making this homemade Kung Pao Tofu Delight for a healthier and equally delicious option.
Budget-Friendly Kung Pao Tofu Delight
This kung pao tofu delight recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Tofu is an affordable source of protein, and the vegetables used, such as zucchini and bell peppers, are budget-friendly and nutritious. The dish offers a balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and economical option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is Kung Pao Tofu Delight Healthy?
The kung pao tofu delight recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:
- Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, low in fat, and rich in minerals like calcium and iron
- Vegetables like zucchini, red bell peppers, ginger, and garlic provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Brown sugar and rice vinegar are used in moderation, which helps keep the added sugar content low
- Sambal oelek adds flavor without significantly increasing the calorie count
- Peanuts provide healthy fats and additional protein
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of soy sauce, which is high in sodium. Reducing the soy sauce or using a low-sodium alternative would make the dish healthier
- Cornstarch is used as a thickener, which can add extra calories. Consider using a smaller amount or substituting with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch
- The recipe calls for frying the tofu, which can increase the fat content. An alternative cooking method, such as baking or air frying, could reduce the overall fat content
To make the kung pao tofu delight even healthier, you could:
- Add more vegetables to increase the fiber content and provide a greater variety of nutrients. Consider including broccoli, carrots, or snap peas
- Use a whole grain alternative to serve alongside the tofu, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Incorporate additional herbs and spices, like cilantro or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt or sugar
- Opt for unsalted peanuts to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
- Serve the dish with a side of steamed or lightly sautéed leafy greens, such as spinach or bok choy, to boost the nutrient density of the meal
Editor's Opinion on the Delightful Kung Pao Tofu
The Kung Pao Tofu Delight recipe is a delightful and flavorful vegetarian dish. The combination of crispy tofu, vibrant vegetables, and a savory, slightly spicy sauce creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. The use of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic infuses the dish with umami richness, while the addition of toasted peanuts provides a satisfying crunch. This dish is a wonderful option for those seeking a meatless alternative with a punch of bold and zesty flavors.
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Why trust this Kung Pao Tofu Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful meal. The use of extra firm tofu provides a hearty and protein-rich base, while the inclusion of ginger and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth. The addition of zucchini and red bell peppers introduces a colorful and nutritious element, enhancing the visual appeal and nutritional value. The carefully balanced blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sambal oelek creates a harmonious and savory sauce, elevating the overall taste. The incorporation of toasted sesame oil and lightly salted peanuts adds a delightful nuttiness and crunch, completing this delectable kung pao tofu delight.
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