Cook Korean kimchi tofu stir-fry in 4 simple steps
Korean cuisine offers dishes full of vibrant flavors and health benefits, catering to various dietary preferences. The Korean kimchi tofu stir-fry is a notable vegetarian and eggless choice, blending the tangy taste of kimchi with creamy tofu for a flavorful balance. Originating from Korea's culinary tradition, this easy-to-make stir-fry is nutrient-rich, inviting us to start cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To make this dish, gather 200 grams of firm tofu (drained, cubed), one cup of vegan kimchi (without fish sauce), two tablespoons of vegetable oil, one thinly sliced small onion, two minced garlic cloves, one tablespoon of soy sauce, one teaspoon of sesame oil, and half a teaspoon of sugar (optional). Garnish with green onions. These ingredients combine for an authentic Korean flavor.
Preparing the tofu
Begin by pressing the tofu to eliminate excess water. Wrap it in a kitchen towel, place a heavy object on top for 15 minutes, ensuring it soaks up flavors when cooked. Then, cut the tofu into half-inch cubes. In a non-stick pan, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the tofu cubes until golden brown on all sides, then set aside.
Cooking vegetables and kimchi
In the same pan used for frying tofu, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Saute the sliced onion until it becomes translucent. Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute until fragrant but not browned. Then add your vegan kimchi to the mix and stir-fry for about three minutes or until it starts to soften slightly.
Combining ingredients
Return the fried tofu cubes to the pan with the vegetables and kimchi. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar if using. This step is key for enhancing the dish's flavors, ensuring a balance among ingredients without any overshadowing. It aims for a harmonious flavor blend in every bite, faithfully maintaining the dish's traditional Korean character.
Final touches
Mix everything gently to distribute ingredients evenly, ensuring each bite offers a blend of crispy tofu and soft, tangy kimchi, enhanced by soy and sesame oils. This combination delivers a true Korean culinary experience in your kitchen. Garnish with green onions and serve hot with rice or noodles, catering to those eager to explore diverse cultures and cuisines from the comfort of home.
