Sichuan Peppercorn Tofu

Sichuan Peppercorn Tofu is a vibrant and aromatic dish that combines the unique numbing spice of Sichuan peppercorns with crispy tofu and fresh vegetables. This vegan delight offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal lunch option.

Ingredients

• Firm tofu - 300 grams
• Sichuan peppercorns - 1 teaspoon
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Cornstarch - 2 tablespoons
• Vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon, minced
• Bell pepper - 1 medium, sliced
• Green onion - 2 stalks, chopped
• Carrot - 1 medium, julienned
• Vegetable broth - 100 ml
• Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Steps

1. Press the tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the Sichuan peppercorns until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Let them cool, then crush them slightly.
3. In a bowl, combine the cubed tofu, cornstarch, crushed Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat the tofu evenly.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, then add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the sliced bell pepper, carrot, and chopped green onion to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
7. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and stir gently to combine everything.
8. Drizzle sesame oil over the dish, adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.
9. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 30 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in plant-based protein from tofu, promoting muscle health and satiety.
• Sichuan peppercorns have antioxidant properties and may aid in digestion.

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