Szechuan Tofu Stir-Fry with Crispy Peanuts

A vibrant, umami-packed tofu dish with a signature Szechuan peppercorn kick and crunchy peanut topping, ready in under 20 minutes.

Cuisine: Chinese

Category: Asian

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 15 minutes.

Serves 2.

Ingredients

• 14 oz firm tofu
• 1/4 cup peanuts
• 1 tsp Szechuan peppercorns
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves, minced garlic
• 1 tbsp, grated fresh ginger
• 3, thinly sliced green onions
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Press 14 oz firm tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into 3/4-inch cubes. Toss with 1 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add tofu in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, then transfer to a plate.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tsp Szechuan peppercorns and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until aromatic.
4. Step 4: Whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar in a small bowl. Pour into skillet, then add 3 sliced green onions. Simmer for 1 minute until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Step 5: Return tofu to skillet, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 2 minutes until heated through. Stir in 1 tsp sesame oil and 1/4 cup toasted peanuts.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately over steamed rice, garnished with extra green onions.