Vegan Black Pepper Tofu

Serves 3–4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the tofu:

• 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2–3 tablespoons oil (for frying)

For the vegetables:

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 1 bell pepper, sliced

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the black pepper sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sugar

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice

• 1/3 cup (80 ml) vegetable broth or water

• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to thicken)

Instructions

1. Press the tofu
   Drain tofu and press for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
   Pat dry and cut into cubes (about 1 inch).

2. Coat the tofu
   In a bowl, toss tofu with salt and 2 tablespoons cornstarch until evenly coated.

3. Cook the tofu
   Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
   Add tofu in a single layer.
   Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
   Remove from pan and set aside.

4. Cook the vegetables
   In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed.
   Add onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
   Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Make the sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Soy sauce

• Dark soy sauce (if using)

• Maple syrup

• Rice vinegar

• Vegetable broth

• Black pepper

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

6. Combine everything
   Return tofu to the pan.
   Pour in the sauce.
   Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently, until sauce thickens and coats the tofu.

7. Taste and adjust
   Add more black pepper for stronger heat, or a splash of soy sauce for saltiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot over:

• Steamed jasmine rice

• Brown rice

• Noodles

• Quinoa

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced green onions

• Sesame seeds

Tips for Best Flavor

• Use freshly ground black pepper for a bold, aromatic taste.

• Do not overcrowd the pan when frying tofu.

• For extra crispy tofu, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes before adding to the sauce.