Craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful weeknight meal? Look no further than this stir-fried Shanghai bok choy with tofu recipe! This dish is packed with fresh, vibrant flavors and boasts a delightful combination of tender tofu and crisp-tender bok choy. It’s a perfect showcase of simple ingredients elevated by a few carefully chosen seasonings, resulting in a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes. The beautiful emerald green of the bok choy paired with the creamy texture of the tofu makes this dish as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.
This recipe is incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences or add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. Ready to get started on this simple yet stunning stir-fry? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- 14-inch standard steel wok
Ingredients
- Shanghai Bok Choy
- Fried Tofu
- Oyster sauce: small amount
- Hot chili with fermented black soy bean: ½ teaspoon
- Oil
- Water: small amount
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Stir-fry the Bok Choy
- Heat the wok and add oil. Once the oil is warm (around 20-30 seconds), add the prepared Bok Choy (cut into stir-fryable pieces).
- Stir-fry the Bok Choy until it's about 50-60% cooked. Add a small amount of water to the wok to steam the Bok Choy and soften the fibers.
- Taste test the Bok Choy to check for doneness. The bottom part should be soft, almost mushy. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Step 2. Add Tofu and Saute
- Add the fried tofu to the wok and stir-fry together.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Add a small amount of oyster sauce and hot chili with fermented black soy bean. Stir well to combine flavors.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Cut the Bok Choy into small, manageable pieces for easy stir-frying. The bottom part of the Bok Choy provides the best flavor.
- Stir-frying in a hot wok ensures the Maillard reaction occurs, creating flavorful molecules. This is crucial for achieving the best taste.
- Don't overcrowd the wok when stir-frying. A large wok is recommended to accommodate the vegetables.
- Season lightly; the Bok Choy and tofu are naturally flavorful.
- Experiment with different proteins (chicken, beef) to customize the dish.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of tofu?
Yes! Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for stir-fries as it holds its shape better. Silken tofu will likely fall apart.
2. What if I don't have oyster sauce?
Soy sauce, tamari, or a combination of both can be used as a substitute. You might want to add a touch of sesame oil for extra flavor.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the vegetables and tofu in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and stir-fry just before serving.
This simple stir-fry is a testament to how quickly delicious and healthy food can be made. With minimal ingredients and even less time, you've created a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy your vibrant and healthy stir-fried Shanghai bok choy with tofu!