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When it comes to delicious and vibrant Asian cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of bold flavors like the Fiery Sichuan Tofu Stir-Fry. Hailing from the spicy kitchens of Sichuan province in China, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds with its fiery heat and aromatic spices. Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its unique use of bold flavors, particularly the combination of heat from chilies and the distinctive numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns. This dish is a perfect representation of that culinary tradition.

Spicy Sichuan Tofu Stir-Fry

Discover the bold and vibrant flavors of Fiery Sichuan Tofu Stir-Fry, a dish that takes your taste buds on an exciting journey. This recipe combines fresh vegetables, protein-rich tofu, and the unique heat of Sichuan spices. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, this stir-fry is perfect for both spice lovers and those new to Sichuan cuisine. Join in on this culinary adventure and learn to create a satisfying meal that will leave everyone wanting more!
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Ingredients
  

14 oz (400g) firm tofu, drained and pressed

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns

4 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, minced

1 medium red bell pepper, sliced

1 medium green bell pepper, sliced

1 medium onion, sliced

2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust according to your spice preference)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt to taste

Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tofu: Begin by cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. For optimal texture, pat the cubes dry with a paper towel to eliminate any excess moisture.

    Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry them for approximately 30 seconds until aromatic, then remove and discard the peppercorns. This step will infuse the oil with the peppercorns' distinctive flavor.

      Stir-Fry the Tofu: Carefully add the tofu cubes to the hot oil in the pan. Fry for about 5–7 minutes, turning gently to ensure all sides achieve a delicious golden-brown crust. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

        Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, if necessary, add a splash more oil. Introduce the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, ensuring not to let them burn.

          Add Vegetables: Now, add in the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the onion. Stir-fry these colorful veggies for about 3-4 minutes, keeping the heat high to maintain a tender-crisp texture.

            Combine Ingredients: Return the golden tofu to the skillet. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, sesame oil, and sugar until combined. Pour this sauce over the tofu and vegetables in the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure even coverage.

              Simmer: Let the mixture simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the tofu and vegetables. Add salt to taste.

                Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your stir-fry with chopped green onions for a fresh note, and serve hot over a bed of cooked rice or noodles.

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, serve the stir-fry in a large bowl, garnished with additional green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil. Pair it with colorful chopsticks for a vibrant touch!