Marinated Tofu Stir-Fry: A Delightful Vegetarian Dish

Enhanced Sauce for Marinated Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients for the Marinade and Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (for a sweet and tangy flavor)
• 1 tsp chili paste (like sambal oelek or sriracha for heat)
• 1 tsp cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed

Instructions:

1. Create the Marinade:

   • In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and chili paste.
   • Reserve half of this mixture to use as a sauce later. Add cornstarch to this reserved half and mix well; set aside.
   • In the remaining half, marinate the cubed tofu for at least 30 minutes, or longer for deeper flavor.

2. Prepare the Stir-Fry:

   • Follow the original stir-fry instructions for cooking tofu and vegetables.

3. Add the Enhanced Sauce:

   • After returning the tofu to the skillet with the vegetables, pour in the reserved sauce (with cornstarch).
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and vegetables evenly.

This enhanced sauce, with its layers of flavor from hoisin, chili, and rice vinegar, adds a delightful complexity to the dish. The hoisin sauce contributes a rich, umami depth, the chili paste introduces a subtle kick, and the rice vinegar balances it all with a touch of acidity. Enjoy this flavorful and exciting stir-fry! 🌶️🍜🌿