Description
This Vegan Cashew Tofu is a flavorful and nutritious plant-based dish featuring crispy pan-fried tofu, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables tossed in a savory Asian-inspired sauce. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, and pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Vegetables
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp cornstarch (for slurry)
Instructions
- Coat the tofu: In a bowl, toss the cubed tofu with cornstarch until evenly coated. This helps create a crispy exterior when cooked.
- Pan-fry the tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and pan-fry, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables and cashews: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the cashews, sliced red bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp and cashews are lightly toasted.
- Prepare and add the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and the cornstarch-water slurry. Pour the sauce into the skillet over the vegetables and cashews, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Combine tofu and simmer: Add the pan-fried tofu back to the skillet. Toss everything together and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the stir-fry with sliced green onions if using, and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For added heat, stir in sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Feel free to swap the vegetables based on what you have available: snap peas, mushrooms, or carrots are excellent alternatives.
- Pressing the tofu well before cooking ensures it crisps up nicely.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to control the saltiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
