Tofu Basil Stir-Fry (Thai-Inspired)

If you love the bold flavors of Thai basil stir-fry but can't always find traditional ingredients, this recipe is for you. Inspired by the classic Thai pork basil stir-fry (Pad Kra Pao), this version uses firm tofu and pantry-friendly ingredients that are easy to find in Berlin. The result is a savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic dish that's perfect for serving over steamed jasmine rice.

Ingredients

• 200 g firm tofu

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• 1 cup bell pepper, sliced (or other summer vegetables)

• 1 kaffir lime leaf (optional)

• 1/4 cup soy VTP

• 1/4 cup water

Sauce

• 1 tbsp creamy balsamico vinegar

• 1 tbsp premium dark soy sauce

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce

• 1 tbsp garlic teriyaki sauce

• 1 tbsp water

• 1/2 tsp chili flakes

To Finish

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Crumble firm tofu into small pieces using your hands. Place it in a container, add the cornstarch, and shake until the tofu is evenly coated.

2. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu and fry until golden and crispy on all sides.

3. Add the minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and the kaffir lime leaf (if using). Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant.

4. Add 1/4 cup of soy VTP and 1/4 cup of water. Continue stir-frying until everything is well combined.

5. In a small bowl, mix together the creamy balsamico vinegar, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, garlic teriyaki sauce, 1 tablespoon of water, and some chili flakes. Pour the sauce into the pan and stir well until the crispy tofu is evenly coated and the sauce slightly thickens.

6. Turn off the heat and gently fold in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil while keeping its fresh aroma.

   

Serve with steamed jasmine rice and enjoy your homemade Thai-inspired tofu basil stir-fry.

Note:

You can replace bell peppers with other vegetables such as

broccoli, tomatoes, onions or zucchini.