Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 bunch of water spinach (about 250g)
- 200g firm tofu, cut into small cubes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, sliced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the water spinach thoroughly and cut into 2-inch pieces.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the garlic and chili and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
5. Add the water spinach and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
6. Add the soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
7. Return the fried tofu to the pan and toss everything together.
8. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional sliced chili if desired.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 2-3 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150 per serving
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Water spinach can be substituted with regular spinach or bok choy.
- Firm tofu can be substituted with any type of tofu or even chicken or shrimp.
Variations:
- Add sliced onion or bell pepper for extra flavor and texture.
- Use oyster sauce instead of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of vinegar or lime juice for a tangy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to dry the tofu cubes with a paper towel before frying to ensure they get crispy.
- Don't overcook the water spinach, as it can become mushy and lose its vibrant green color.
- Adjust the amount of chili to your desired level of spiciness.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a shallow bowl or on a platter for a rustic look.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Sliced chili
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil
Pairings:
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light and refreshing salad for a balanced meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Egg drop soup
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the tofu is not crispy enough, make sure to dry it thoroughly before frying and increase the heat slightly.
- If the water spinach is too watery, try blanching it in boiling water for 30 seconds before stir-frying.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the tofu and water spinach thoroughly to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Water spinach is a popular vegetable in Southeast Asian cuisine and is commonly used in stir-fries and soups.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, slightly sweet, and spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish or as a side dish.
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Region: Chinese