Looking for a quick, delectable dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen? Dive into the world of plant-based cooking with our mouthwatering Seared Tofu with Green Beans and Asian Coconut Sauce! This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a perfect balance of crispy tofu, fresh green beans, and a creamy coconut sauce that will leave you craving more. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that serves four and impresses family and friends alike. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the firm tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet or a few cans, on top. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- While the tofu is pressing, prepare the green beans. Rinse them under cold water, trim the ends, and set aside.
- After pressing the tofu, cut it into 1-inch cubes. Season the tofu cubes lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cubed tofu in a single layer. Sear the tofu for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. If necessary, add a splash of water to help steam the beans and cook them through.
- While the green beans are cooking, prepare the Asian coconut sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk and soy sauce until well combined.
- Once the green beans are cooked, return the seared tofu to the skillet. Pour the coconut milk mixture over the tofu and green beans. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat. Serve the seared tofu and green beans warm, garnished with chopped cilantro.
- Enjoy your delicious Seared Tofu with Green Beans and Asian Coconut Sauce!
Tips
- Pressing the Tofu: Don’t skip the pressing step! Removing excess moisture ensures that your tofu gets that perfect crispy texture when seared. The heavier the weight, the better!
- High Heat for Searing: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the tofu. This helps to create a beautiful golden crust. If the tofu sticks, it may not be ready to flip yet.
- Vibrant Green Beans: To keep your green beans bright and vibrant, avoid overcooking them. They should be tender-crisp for the best texture.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the soy sauce to your taste. You can also add a dash of chili paste or flakes for a spicy kick!
- Garnishing: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color to the dish. Don’t skip it! You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish over steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious coconut sauce. It’s a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg
