| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 10g | 2g | 50g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 3g | 12g | 0.8g |
Nestled between the familiar kimchi bowls and fresh salads on my kitchen table, the gift of discovering the Stir-Fried Tofu with Rice Paddy Herb recipe still remains one of my most joyous food encounters. There’s an elusive elegance in its simplicity, transforming everyday ingredients into a vibrant, healthful, and utterly delicious feast.
A Taste Adventure from Asia
As a born and bred New Englander, below the flashing lighthouse and the chorus of seagulls, my gastronomic upbringing was painted with the hues of our bountiful Atlantic harvest. It was only after being an adult and venturing out of my seafood comfort zone, that I discovered my passion for international flavors.
Stir-Fried Tofu with Rice Paddy Herb is a dish that opened a new food world to me. It’s a classic southeast Asian flavor pairing, where the unique, mildly citrusy flavor of the rice paddy herb effortlessly complements the firm tofu. This is a versatile dish that can hold its own or be paired with dishes like Veggie Singapore Noodles or a Thai Pineapple Fried Rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
Nutrition For The Soul and Body
Beyond the bursting flavors and enticing aroma, this Stir-Fried Tofu with Rice Paddy Herb recipe is packed with nutrients that are beneficial to our health. Tofu, beloved for its high protein content, is also a great source of essential amino acids and minerals. The beautiful peppers offer a wealth of antioxidants, while the lime juice enhances the flavors and adds a vital dose of vitamin C. The rice paddy herb, a herb native to Southeast Asia, is traditionally used for its digestive benefits.
Moreover, the simple act of creating this recipe, slicing the peppers, marinating the tofu, and feeling the heat of the pan as the ingredients dance in the hot oil- it all contributes to a form of culinary therapy for me. It’s the kind of recipe my daughters, Erin and Samantha, and I love to cook together on our weekly family dinner nights.
All of these reasons make Stir-Fried Tofu with Rice Paddy Herb more than just a recipe; it’s a journey of flavors, an opportunity for nutritious dining, and a moment to connect with loved ones. It’s an adventure. Now, as I’m writing this for you, that first taste of stir-fried tofu with rice paddy herb flashes again on my mental taste buds. The magical blend of flavors and the nourishing ingredients. A moment of joy in every bite!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups uncooked rice
- 14 ounces firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups rice paddy herb, roughly chopped
- 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
- 1 cup sliced green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
Method
Step One
Start by cooking the 2 cups of uncooked rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool.
Step Two
In a wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and stir-fry until it is golden and crispy. This should take about 5 minutes. Remove the tofu from the wok and set it aside.
Step Three
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the wok. Add the thinly sliced red onion and minced garlic and stir-fry until they are golden and fragrant. This should take about 2 minutes.
Step Four
Next, add the soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper to the wok. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
Step Five
Return the tofu to the wok and add the chopped rice paddy herb. Stir well to ensure the tofu is coated in the sauce and the herb is distributed evenly.
Step Six
Now, add the sliced red and green bell peppers to the wok. Stir-fry the mixture for another 2 minutes until the peppers are just tender but still crisp.
Step Seven
Finally, remove the wok from the heat and stir in the lime juice. Serve the tofu stir-fry over the cooked rice and enjoy your Stir-Fried Tofu with Rice Paddy Herb.
