Ingredients
Tofu Preparation
- 14 oz firm tofu (must be firm or extra firm, not soft)
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 Tablespoons sesame oil (divided)
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cup chopped green beans
- 2 shallots (about 1/2 cup finely chopped)
Sauce
- 6 Tablespoons tamari (or soy sauce)
- 3 Tablespoons water or vegetable broth (Can sub with extra tamari for a saltier dish)
- 2 1/2 Tablespoons organic sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 Tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (reduce to 1/2 Tablespoon for a less spicy dish)
Garnish
- Fresh Thai Basil (optional, as garnish)
Instructions
- Press Tofu: Slice the block of tofu in half and press it between two towels or paper towels. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb excess moisture, which helps the tofu crisp up during cooking.
- Prep Sauce and Vegetables: While tofu is pressing, chop green beans and shallots. In a small bowl, whisk together tamari or soy sauce, water or vegetable broth, organic sugar, ground ginger, and freshly ground black pepper to make the black pepper sauce. Set aside.
- Coat Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes and place in a large bowl. Add cornstarch and use your hands to evenly coat all tofu pieces, aiding in crispiness when fried.
- Fry Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add tofu cubes and stir fry for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu from wok and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables and Combine: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the wok, then add chopped shallots and green beans. Stir fry for about 5 minutes until shallots become translucent and green beans are slightly tender. Add the prepared black pepper sauce and tofu back to the wok, stirring well to combine. Cook together for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
- Serve: Remove wok from heat. Serve the black pepper tofu and green beans hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with fresh Thai basil leaves if desired. Enjoy this spicy, savory vegan dish!
Notes
- Be sure to press tofu well to achieve maximum crispiness during frying.
- Adjust black pepper quantity to your preferred spice level.
- You can substitute water with vegetable broth for more depth of flavor.
- Serve with steamed white rice or brown rice if you prefer a whole grain option.
- Fresh Thai basil adds a nice aromatic touch but is optional.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegan
