A Quick Dinner Adventure
My Favorite is Tofu Veggie Chow Mein and One evening, I found myself in a bit of a culinary rut, searching for something quick yet delicious. I remembered a recipe I had tried before—Tofu Veggie Chow Mein. It’s a simple, speedy dish that’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is short, but a good meal is still a must. With its vibrant mix of vegetables and caramelized tofu, it’s a treat that never fails to satisfy.
The Tofu Transformation
I started by marinating slices of firm tofu with soy sauce and Shaoxing wine. The key to great chow mein is making sure the tofu is flavorful and well-cooked. After a brief marination, I heated vegetable oil in my wok, adding minced garlic to infuse the oil with a savory aroma. Next, I added the tofu, letting it caramelize into golden-brown perfection. The tofu’s crisp edges and tender center were just what I needed to create a satisfying main course.
A Symphony of Flavors
While the tofu was cooking, I prepped the vegetables. I sliced up napa cabbage, carrots, and scallions, and tossed them into the wok once the tofu was done. The vegetables sizzled and wilted just right, adding a delightful crunch and color to the dish. I mixed in the cooked chow mein noodles, bean sprouts, and a homemade sauce made from hoisin, soy sauce, and a touch of chili garlic paste. The sauce coated everything in a glossy, flavorful sheen that made the whole kitchen smell amazing.
Ready to Serve
In just about 15 minutes, my kitchen was filled with the enticing aroma of Tofu Veggie Chow Mein. I plated the dish, garnishing it with a sprinkle of white pepper, and took a moment to admire my work. The noodles were perfectly coated in the savory sauce, and the tofu and vegetables looked vibrant and inviting. With a quick taste, I knew this meal would become a regular on my weeknight dinner rotation. Simple, delicious, and utterly satisfying—just what I needed for a busy evening.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Tofu Veggie Chow Mein
- Be sure not to overcook the chow mein noodles. They should be tender but still have a slight bite to them. Follow the package instructions closely and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- For best results, press the tofu before marinating to remove excess moisture. This helps the tofu absorb more flavor and caramelize better. If you’re short on time, a tofu press or even a heavy pan can do the trick.
- To enhance the dish, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice before serving. This adds a nice tangy contrast to the sweet and savory flavors of the sauce.
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. They can add different textures and flavors to the dish.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the sauce. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce while cooking. Let it cook for another minute or until thickened.
Tofu Veggie Chow Mein
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Tofu Veggie Chow Mein! This quick and easy recipe is packed with caramelized tofu and fresh veggies, making it a delightful alternative to traditional meat-based chow mein. Perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner, this dish will have you hooked with its savory sauce and crisp textures. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
4
plates10
minutes5
minutes250
kcal5
minutes20
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Noodles and Vegetables
6 oz fresh chow mein noodles
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 cups napa cabbage, thinly sliced
1/2 cup carrots, cut into matchsticks
2 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup mung bean sprouts
- Tofu and Marinade
5 oz firm tofu, cut into slices
1/2 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
- Sauce
1/2 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tbsp chili garlic paste (optional)
2 tsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
1/4 cup water
Pinch of ground white pepper
Directions
- Prepare Noodles – Follow the package instructions to cook the noodles (usually involves soaking in boiling water). Drain and set aside.
- Marinate Tofu – Mix tofu slices with soy sauce and Shaoxing wine. Let it marinate for about 5 minutes.
- Make Sauce – In a small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, chili garlic paste (if using), sugar, sesame oil, water, and white pepper. Stir well.
- Cook Vegetables – Add napa cabbage and carrots to the wok. Stir fry until the cabbage begins to wilt (about 2 minutes).
- Serve – Transfer to serving plates and enjoy immediately.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- wok
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 250kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 60IU
- Vitamin C: 40mg
- Calcium: 10mg
- Iron: 15mg
FAQ-Tofu Veggie Chow Mein
Can I use a different type of tofu?
Yes, you can use extra-firm tofu if you prefer a firmer texture. Silken tofu is not recommended as it will not hold its shape well during stir-frying.
What if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?
You can substitute Shaoxing wine with dry sherry or sake. If you need a non-alcoholic option, use a splash of rice vinegar or omit it entirely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served immediately, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Store the cooked noodles, tofu, and vegetables separately, and combine them with the sauce when ready to serve.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of chili garlic paste or sriracha in the sauce. You can also add sliced fresh chilies during stir-frying.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not ideal for this dish as it may affect the texture of the vegetables and tofu. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a wok or pan over medium heat to maintain the best texture.
