Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
- 1 cup of fresh purple bauhinia flowers, washed and trimmed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Wok or large skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add tofu and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
5. Add red bell pepper and onion and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.
6. Add purple bauhinia flowers and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
7. Pour the sauce mixture over the stir-fry and stir until everything is coated evenly.
8. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens.
9. Serve hot with rice.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Purple bauhinia flowers can be substituted with other edible flowers such as chrysanthemum or nasturtium.
- Firm tofu can be substituted with tempeh or seitan.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Use different colored bell peppers for a colorful stir-fry.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the tofu well to prevent excess moisture in the stir-fry.
- Cut the vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Add a splash of water if the stir-fry becomes too dry.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the stir-fry in a large bowl or on a platter.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with chopped scallions or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed broccoli or bok choy.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the stir-fry is too salty, add a splash of water or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the purple bauhinia flowers thoroughly before using.
Food history:
- Purple bauhinia flowers are a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine and are known for their delicate flavor and vibrant color.
Flavor profiles:
- The stir-fry has a savory and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of floral notes from the purple bauhinia flowers.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a side dish to a larger meal.
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Region: Chinese