There’s something truly delightful about the way crispy tofu mingles with vibrant choy sum, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. One evening, while I found myself scrolling through endless takeout menus, I decided it was time to reclaim my kitchen. The resulting stir fry was a happy culmination of crunchy textures and bold flavors that left me feeling empowered instead of defeated by fast-food fatigue.
With just a handful of ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and the undeniable star—golden-brown tofu—this easy recipe proves that home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated to deliver punchy flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressive enough for a laid-back dinner party, this dish can easily become your new favorite go-to. Ready to create a bowl of crispy tofu and choy sum that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Why is Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum so special?
Irresistible Crunch: The crispy tofu adds a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender choy sum.
Bold Flavor: Infused with garlic and savory sauces, this dish packs a punch that will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip this up in a flash—perfect for a busy weeknight!
Healthy Goodness: Loaded with plant-based protein and fresh greens, it’s a nutritious alternative to takeout meals.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Impress your family and friends with this vibrant stir fry; it’s sure to become a hit at dinners!
Feeling inspired? Try adding variations like colorful bell peppers or snap peas for an extra pop of flavor!
Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Ingredients
For the Tofu
• Firm Tofu – 400 g, diced into small cubes; choose firm tofu for optimal crispiness.
• Oil – For frying; opt for oils with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil.
For the Stir Fry
• Choy Sum – 100 g, chopped into sections; this vibrant green adds essential nutrients and color.
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile of your crispy tofu and choy sum.
• Light Soy Sauce – 2 tbsp; this adds a rich umami flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Oyster Sauce (or Vegan Oyster Sauce) – 2 tbsp; enhances the savory taste, balancing the dish perfectly.
Get ready to whip up this delightful crispy tofu and choy sum stir fry that will have everyone raving!
How to Make Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum
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Heat the Oil: Prepare your deep fryer by heating oil to 180°C (356°F). This step is crucial for achieving perfectly golden-brown tofu that’s crispy all around.
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Fry the Tofu: Once the oil is hot, gently place the diced tofu into the deep fryer. Fry until the tofu turns a lovely golden brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain.
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Sauté Garlic: In a wok or large skillet, add a splash of oil and heat over medium flame. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
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Add Choy Sum: Stir in the chopped choy sum and stir fry for approximately 30 seconds. The greens should remain vibrant and slightly tender but still crisp—this keeps the dish fresh and lively.
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Combine Sauces: Pour in the light soy sauce and oyster sauce. Continue to stir fry everything together until the choy sum is just wilted, roughly another minute. It’s all about balancing those flavors!
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Serve: Plate your crispy tofu and choy sum while it’s hot, and enjoy the vibrant colors and irresistible aromas.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an added decorative touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum?
When you’ve got a vibrant dish like this stir fry, you want to create a harmonious meal that delights all the senses.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the delicious sauces, providing a neutral base that complements the bold flavors beautifully.
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Garlic Noodles: Tossed in a savory sauce, these noodles add a chewy texture and enhance the entire meal experience. They’re irresistibly slurp-worthy!
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Sesame Spinach Salad: A fresh, crunchy contrast to the warmth of the stir fry, this salad brightens the plate and adds color and nutrition.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: Their crunchy exterior and savory filling create an enjoyable bite, making them a perfect appetizer to kick off the meal.
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Chilled Cucumber Slaw: The refreshing and tangy slaw cuts through the richness of the tofu, bringing a delightful balance to your plate.
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Mango Lassi: This creamy yogurt drink adds a luscious sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of your stir fry. It’s a sip of happiness!
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Coconut Cake: End the meal on a sweet note with light and fluffy coconut cake; its soft texture and mild sweetness round off the experience delightfully.
Create a feast that combines different flavors, textures, and temperatures, making every bite a celebration!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum ahead of time is a fantastic strategy for busy weeknights! You can cube and fry the tofu up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its crispy texture. The choy sum can be washed and chopped ahead as well, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your stir fry, simply reheat the tofu in a hot wok and sauté with the garlic and prepped choy sum before adding the sauces. This way, you’ll have a quick, vibrant meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch!
Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and customize this delicious stir fry to suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Swap light soy sauce for tamari; it offers the same flavor without the gluten.
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of chili paste or fresh sliced chilies to the stir fry for a heat level that’ll awaken your taste buds.
- Sesame Twist: Drizzle sesame oil over the finished dish for a nutty flavor that complements the crispy tofu beautifully.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vibrant vegetables, like bell peppers or snap peas, for color and crunch in every bite.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or cilantro into the mix for a fragrant edge that brightens up the dish.
- Noodle Pairing: Serve over cooked rice noodles or quinoa to turn this stir fry into a hearty meal that fills you up.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté a variety of mushrooms alongside the garlic for an earthy depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Sweet Finish: Add a splash of sweet soy sauce or a sprinkle of sugar during the saucing step for a delightful contrast to the savory elements.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum
Fridge: Store any leftover crispy tofu and choy sum in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To keep the tofu from getting soggy, consider separating it from the greens.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the crispy tofu by placing it in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but may lose some crispiness upon reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some crunch. Sauté the choy sum fresh for better flavor and texture.
Expert Tips for Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum
• Choose the Right Tofu: Always opt for firm tofu to achieve that desired crispiness; silken tofu won’t hold up during cooking.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the tofu in small batches to ensure even cooking. If crowded, it may steam instead of fry, losing that crispy texture.
• Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant; overcooking can turn it bitter and ruin the dish’s flavor profile.
• Tweak the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the soy and oyster sauce to suit your taste. A pinch of sugar can balance the savory elements!
• Add Extra Veggies: For a colorful twist, mix in bell peppers or snap peas with the choy sum, enhancing both flavor and nutrition in your crispy tofu and choy sum dish.
Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right tofu for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, always opt for firm tofu. It holds its shape well during frying and gives you that delightful crunch. Look for tofu that feels dense and is free from dark spots—those are often signs of aging. Silken tofu will break apart and won’t give you the crispy texture you’re after.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of crispy tofu and choy sum?
Very! To keep your crispy tofu and choy sum fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If possible, separate the tofu from the choy sum to prevent the tofu from getting soggy.
Can I freeze crispy tofu and choy sum?
Absolutely! For freezing, lay the crispy tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then pop it in the freezer until frozen solid. Transfer the tofu to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes. Sauté fresh choy sum for the best flavor!
What should I do if my tofu isn’t crispy enough?
Not to worry! If your tofu turns out soggy, check a few things: ensure the oil was hot enough—ideally around 180°C (356°F)—before adding the tofu. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can trap steam and prevent crispiness. If you find your tofu isn’t browning well, increase the cooking time slightly, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, keep in mind that this recipe includes soy sauce, which contains gluten. Opt for gluten-free soy sauce if necessary. For a vegan option, ensure to use vegan oyster sauce, which can often be found in health food stores or Asian markets. Always consult with guests regarding dietary restrictions and adaptations!
Crispy Tofu and Choy Sum: Your New Favorite Stir Fry Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare your deep fryer by heating oil to 180°C (356°F). This step is crucial for achieving perfectly golden-brown tofu that’s crispy all around.
- Once the oil is hot, gently place the diced tofu into the deep fryer. Fry until the tofu turns a lovely golden brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain.
- In a wok or large skillet, add a splash of oil and heat over medium flame. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the chopped choy sum and stir fry for approximately 30 seconds. The greens should remain vibrant and slightly tender but still crisp.
- Pour in the light soy sauce and oyster sauce. Continue to stir fry everything together until the choy sum is just wilted, roughly another minute.
- Plate your crispy tofu and choy sum while it’s hot, and enjoy the vibrant colors and irresistible aromas.