Schezwan Tofu Fried Rice
A fiery and flavorful Indo-Chinese classic, this fried rice features crispy tofu and crunchy vegetables tossed in a bold Schezwan sauce. It's a satisfying one-pan meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Fry the Tofu
- b.In a mixing bowl, toss the pressed and cubed tofu with corn starch until each piece is evenly coated.
- c.Heat 3 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large wok or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
- d.Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated tofu in a single layer. Fry for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
- e.Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy tofu from the wok and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- b.In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Swirl to coat the bottom.
- c.Add the finely chopped garlic, ginger, and slit green chilies. Stir-fry for 30-40 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the chopped onion and the white parts of the spring onion. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
- e.Increase the heat to high. Add the diced carrots and French beans. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
- f.Add the diced capsicum and stir-fry for another minute.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine Rice and Sauces
- b.Add the chilled, cooked rice to the wok. Use a spatula to gently break up any large clumps.
- c.Pour the Schezwan sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar over the rice. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- d.Toss everything vigorously on high heat for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the rice and vegetables are thoroughly coated with the sauces and heated through.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Return the crispy fried tofu to the wok along with the green parts of the spring onion.
- c.Gently fold everything together for about 30 seconds to combine and reheat the tofu.
- d.Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, hot from the wok.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest fried rice, use day-old, refrigerated rice. The cold, dry grains will separate easily and won't turn mushy.
- 2Pressing the tofu is non-negotiable for a crispy texture. It removes excess water, allowing the tofu to fry rather than steam.
- 3Maintain high heat throughout the stir-frying process. This cooks vegetables quickly, keeping them crisp, and imparts a desirable smoky 'wok hei' flavor.
- 4Avoid overcrowding the pan. If you need to make a larger batch, cook the fried rice in two separate portions to ensure everything stir-fries properly.
- 5Customize your rice by adding other quick-cooking vegetables like mushrooms, baby corn, shredded cabbage, or peas.
- 6Control the heat by adjusting the amount of Schezwan sauce and green chilies to your personal preference.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace tofu with paneer, scrambled eggs, or chicken for a different protein source. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your Schezwan sauce is certified gluten-free.
Grain VariationGrain Variation
For a healthier alternative with more fiber, substitute white rice with cooked and cooled brown rice or quinoa.
Nutty AdditionNutty Addition
For extra crunch and flavor, garnish the finished dish with a tablespoon of roasted peanuts or cashews.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Plant-Based Protein
Tofu provides a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it a fantastic ingredient for muscle maintenance, repair, and overall body function.
Rich in Fiber and Vitamins
Loaded with vegetables like carrots, beans, and capsicum, this dish is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, and essential vitamins like Vitamin A and C.
Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates
The rice serves as a primary source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy to fuel your body and brain throughout the day.
Frequently asked questions
It can be a well-balanced meal, offering plant-based protein from tofu and fiber from various vegetables. However, it can be high in sodium and calories due to the sauces and oil. For a healthier version, use brown rice, reduce the amount of oil, and opt for low-sodium soy sauce.