Description
A flavorful and healthy vegan main course featuring crispy tofu and tender asparagus coated in a savory, spicy miso-chile glaze. This quick stovetop recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like avocado or canola), divided
Vegetables
- 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or Sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons water
Garnish (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes, then gently toss them with cornstarch and salt until evenly coated to ensure a crispy texture when cooked.
- Cook the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Asparagus: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the asparagus is bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
- Make the Miso-Chile Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the white miso paste, soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup or honey, chili garlic sauce, and water until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the asparagus. Pour the miso-chile sauce over the tofu and asparagus and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and heat through.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the miso-chile asparagus and tofu hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy it on its own or over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Press tofu well in advance to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
- For extra crispness, tofu can be air-fried before adding to the stir fry.
- Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to control the heat level.
- Try adding mushrooms or snap peas to increase vegetable variety and texture.
