When I first embraced the world of plant-based cooking, I discovered a vibrant gem that has since become a staple in my kitchen: Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Stir Fry. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the first crunchy bite of perfectly fried tofu, paired with the tender snap of choy sum. The combination dances together in a medley of garlic aroma and umami flavors that instantly transports me to my favorite Asian restaurant, minus the wait time and takeout boxes.
On those busy weeknights when fast food beckons, this recipe emerges as my go-to solution—ready in just 30 minutes! It’s not just quick and healthy; it’s also an opportunity to unleash your creativity by adding your favorite colorful vegetables. So, why not swap in some vibrant bell peppers or crisp snap peas? Join me on this culinary adventure, where we’ll whip up a delicious dish that leaves you feeling energized and satisfied—no more fast-food fatigue here!
Why will you adore Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum?
Quick and Easy: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Vibrant Flavors: The fusion of garlic and umami sauces elevates the taste profile.
Health Benefits: Packed with plant-based protein and essential vitamins, it’s a nutritious option.
Creative Freedom: Feel free to mix in your favorite colorful vegetables for a personalized twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: This stir fry is sure to impress friends and family, offering a delectable taste of Asia right at home.
Give it a try, and you might find it’s not just a recipe, but a staple of your weeknight meals!
Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Ingredients
• Prepare to whip up a delightful Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum that’s both quick and nutritious!
For the Stir Fry
- Firm Tofu – 400 g, diced into small cubes; the key protein that becomes wonderfully crispy when fried.
- Oil – For frying; opt for canola or vegetable oil for the best frying results.
- Choy Sum – 100 g, chopped into sections; adds essential vitamins and vibrant color to your dish.
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; elevates the flavor with a fresh, aromatic punch.
- Light Soy Sauce – 2 tbsp; contributes a savory umami essence without overwhelming the meal.
- Oyster Sauce (or Vegan Oyster Sauce) – 2 tbsp; balances flavors and enhances the dish beautifully.
For Serving
- Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
How to Make Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Stir Fry
- Prepare Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer to 180°C (356°F). This temperature is perfect for frying tofu to golden perfection!
- Fry Tofu: Carefully add diced tofu to the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown. Drain the excess oil on paper towels to keep the tofu crispy.
- Sauté Garlic: In a heated wok, add a splash of oil and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
- Add Choy Sum: Stir in chopped choy sum and cook for about 30 seconds. You want them vibrant and tender, showcasing a lovely green color.
- Combine Sauces: Pour in the light soy sauce and oyster sauce (or vegan alternative). Stir-fry everything together until the choy sum is just wilted, about 1 minute.
- Serve: Plate the stir fry immediately while it’s hot! For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving.
Optional: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or garlic noodles for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum
- Tofu Texture: Use firm tofu instead of silken tofu to maintain the desired crispy texture during frying. Silken tofu won’t hold its shape!
- Batch Frying: Fry the tofu in small batches. This prevents steaming and helps achieve that perfect golden crunch!
- Garlic Care: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; cook only until it’s fragrant to avoid a bitter taste in your Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum.
- Sauce Customization: Adjust sauce quantities according to your taste preference; a pinch of sugar can balance out last-minute flavors if desired.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (180°C/356°F) before adding tofu—this is crucial for achieving optimal frying!
Engaging in these tips will navigate you through creating the best Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum possible!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Stir Fry dishes are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the tofu up to 24 hours in advance; simply fry it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The choy sum can be prepped up to 3 days ahead, chopped and stored in a separate container to maintain its texture and vibrant color. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the tofu in a hot pan for a few minutes, sauté the garlic, add choy sum and sauces as detailed in the recipe, and you’ll have a delicious, fresh meal with minimal effort! This makes weeknight dinners so much smoother!
What to Serve with Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Stir Fry?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement this vibrant dish.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauces, offering a fluffy, comforting backdrop for the stir fry.
- Garlic Noodles: The fragrant notes of garlic entwined in buttery noodles create a heavenly contrast to the crunchy tofu.
- Sesame Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach tossed with a sesame dressing adds a refreshing balance of flavors and textures, brightening the meal.
- Stir-Fried Bell Peppers: Brightly colored bell peppers sautéed until tender provide a sweet crunch, enhancing the overall brightness on your plate.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful bites bring an extra layer of crunch and flavor, serving as a satisfying appetizer or side dish.
- Lightly Pickled Vegetables: A tangy, refreshing addition that cleanses the palate, allowing the rich flavors of the stir fry to shine even brighter.
- Chilled Green Tea: The subtle, soothing flavor of this drink adds a zen moment to your meal, perfectly cooling and refreshing.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: For dessert, a warm coconut rice pudding offers a tropical finish that beautifully rounds out the evening.
Mix and match to create a well-rounded meal that caters to your taste buds while embracing the bright, healthy essence of your crispy tofu and choy sum stir fry!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep tofu separate from choy sum to prevent sogginess and maintain texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze fried tofu pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place frozen tofu in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy your Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum warm for the best experience!
- Meal Prep Tips: The tofu can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours prior to cooking, while choy sum can be prepped 3 days in advance for quick assembly.
Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists that will personalize your delicious stir fry!
- Colorful Bell Peppers:
Toss in chopped bell peppers for a vibrant splash of color and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory tofu. - Broccoli Boost:
Substitute broccoli florets for choy sum; steam them slightly before adding to ensure they stay tender-crisp and vibrant. - Spicy Kick:
Add sliced fresh chili or a dash of chili oil for a delightful heat that elevates the dish, perfect for spice lovers seeking a thrill! - Nutty Flavor:
Incorporate toasted sesame oil instead of regular oil for frying, providing a warm, nutty aroma that will deepen flavor notes. - Creamy Contrast:
Stir in diced avocado just before serving for a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crunch of the tofu. - Crispy Garlic:
For a delicious garlic punch, fry sliced garlic until crispy and sprinkle over the dish just before serving. It adds a satisfying crunch! - Zesty Lime:
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for acidity that brightens flavors and perfectly balances the rich umami of sauces. - Quinoa Base:
Serve over fluffy quinoa instead of rice for a nutty whole grain twist that takes this dish to new nutritious heights!
Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
What kind of tofu should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, using firm tofu is essential for achieving that delightful crispy texture. Silken tofu will not hold its shape and can turn mushy during frying. Look for packages labeled “extra-firm” for the best results.
How should I store leftovers of Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to separate the tofu from the choy sum to maintain the crispiness of the tofu and prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze the Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the fried tofu pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
What if I burn the garlic while sautéing?
If you burn the garlic, don’t worry! Simply discard it and start fresh with new minced garlic. Burning can impart a bitter taste, so be vigilant while sautéing. Remember, garlic should only be cooked until fragrant, which typically takes about 30 seconds.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! You can easily make this dish vegan by using vegan oyster sauce or simply replacing it with additional soy sauce. Always check the labels to ensure that your ingredients are vegan-friendly!
Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?
The more the merrier! You can boost the nutrition and color of your Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep everything tender yet crisp!
Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Stir Fry: Quick & Colorful Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oil in a deep fryer to 180°C (356°F).
- Carefully add diced tofu to the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain the excess oil on paper towels to keep the tofu crispy.
- In a heated wok, add a splash of oil and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but avoid burning.
- Stir in chopped choy sum and cook for about 30 seconds, until vibrant and tender.
- Pour in the light soy sauce and oyster sauce (or vegan alternative). Stir-fry until choy sum is just wilted, about 1 minute.
- Plate the stir fry immediately while hot, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired.
