Kung Pao Tofu

Published by PETA Staff.

Most of the Chinese meals that I make at home consist of pairing pan-fried tofu with veggies and soy sauce. They’re definitely not what I’d call adventurous. But I decided to go out on a limb last night by making one of the many sauces I’m fond of eating in Chinese restaurants: kung pao.

 
kung_pao_tofu

Kung pao is a soy- and sesame-based sauce that is thickened with cornstarch. The sauce is made sweet with a touch of brown sugar and spicy with a hint of chili paste and is delicious served over perfect tofu. You can add any combination of veggies that you’d like to the mix, but I decided to keep it simple with just red bell pepper that was only slightly sautéed.

Enjoy!

Kung Pao Tofu
2 Tbsp. white wine
2 Tbsp. soy sauce
2 Tbsp. sesame oil
2 Tbsp. cornstarch, dissolved in 2 Tbsp. water
1 oz. hot chili paste
1 tsp. rice wine vinegar
2 tsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. olive oil
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
4 Tbsp. peanuts
16 oz. perfect tofu (already cooked)

  • In a small bowl, combine the wine, soy cause, sesame oil, cornstarch, chili paste, vinegar, and sugar and stir until well combined. Set aside.
  • In a sauté pan over medium heat, add the olive oil, then sauté the bell pepper and garlic until the pepper just begins to soften, about 3 minutes.
  • Add the sauce and heat until the mixture begins to thicken.
  • Add the tofu and continue to cook until all pieces are well coated with a thick sauce.
  • Serve with rice or noodles and top with peanuts.

Makes 4 servings

I Want Weekly Recipes and Lifestyle Tips!

By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.

GET PETA UPDATES
Stay up to date on the latest vegan trends and get breaking animal rights news delivered straight to your inbox!

By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.

Get the Latest Tips—Right in Your Inbox
We’ll e-mail you weekly with the latest in vegan recipes, fashion, and more!

By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.