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If you're a fan of bold flavors and a touch of heat, then the Szechuan Spice Delight: Fiery Tofu Stir-Fry is a must-try recipe that will awaken your palate and elevate your culinary experience. This dish is a vibrant celebration of Szechuan cuisine, renowned for its unique blend of spices and the signature numbing heat from Szechuan peppercorns. Originating from the southwestern province of China, Szechuan cuisine has gained immense popularity globally, thanks to its complex flavors and diverse ingredients.

Spicy Sichuan Tofu Stir-Fry

Explore the Szechuan Spice Delight: Fiery Tofu Stir-Fry and awaken your taste buds with this vibrant dish! Discover how to combine firm tofu, Szechuan peppercorns, and fresh vegetables for a perfect balance of heat and flavor. This recipe offers detailed cooking instructions and ingredient insights, making it suitable for both experienced cooks and beginners. Elevate your meals with the unique flavors of Szechuan cuisine and enjoy a culinary adventure right at home.

Ingredients
  

400g firm tofu, drained and cubed

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 inch ginger, minced or grated

1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced

1 cup snap peas or snow peas, trimmed

2-3 tablespoons Szechuan peppercorns (adjust for heat)

2-3 tablespoons chili paste (like Doubanjiang)

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon sugar

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu: Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes.

    Fry the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a large frying pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.

      Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

        Add Vegetables: Now, add the sliced bell pepper and snap peas to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

          Incorporate Heat: Stir in the Szechuan peppercorns and chili paste. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the heat to intensify.

            Combine Everything: Return the browned tofu to the pan. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Toss everything together gently to coat the tofu and vegetables with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

              Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Transfer the stir-fry to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired.

                Enjoy: Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings