Vegetarian Kung Pao

Vegetarian Kung Pao is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines crisp vegetables, peanuts, and tofu in a spicy sauce, perfect for a midnight snack. This delightful stir-fry delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of umami flavors.

Ingredients

• Firm Tofu - 200 grams, cubed
• Bell Pepper (red) - 1 medium, diced
• Zucchini - 1 medium, diced
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Green Onions - 3, chopped
• Roasted Peanuts - 50 grams
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 teaspoon, minced
• Soy Sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Hoisin Sauce - 1 tablespoon
• Rice Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Chili Paste - 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Vegetable Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Sesame Oil - 1 teaspoon
• Cornstarch - 1 teaspoon (for thickening)
• Salt - to taste

Steps

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the diced bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot to the pan. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the browned tofu to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the tofu and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the chopped green onions and roasted peanuts. Stir everything together and cook for an additional minute.
7. Drizzle with sesame oil before serving. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 40 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in plant-based protein from tofu.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables.
• Contains healthy fats from peanuts and sesame oil.

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