Nut-Free Black Pepper Tofu

Elevate your dinner game with this Nut-Free Black Pepper Tofu, a bold and flavorful twist on the beloved Asian-inspired classic. Designed to be entirely nut-free, this recipe highlights crispy, golden tofu cubes coated in a rich, peppery sauce that balances the deep umami of soy sauce, the subtle heat of fresh black pepper, and a touch of sweetness. Stir-fried red bell peppers and aromatic ginger, garlic, and green onions bring a fresh and vibrant contrast to the dish. Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes, this plant-based recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or as an impressive centerpiece for your next gathering. Serve hot over steamed rice or alongside your favorite noodles for a satisfying and allergen-friendly meal that bursts with flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 14 oz firm tofu
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 4 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp fresh coarse black pepper
• 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
• 1.5 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tsp sugar
• 0.25 cup water
• 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

Directions

Step 1

Gently drain the tofu and press it between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.

Step 2

In a shallow dish, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated. Shake off excess cornstarch.

Step 3

Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and fry until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the sliced red bell pepper to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 6

Reduce heat to medium, then return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Add both soy sauces, sugar, water, and 2 tablespoons of coarse black pepper. Stir to coat the tofu evenly, about 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 7

Finish with a sprinkle of 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper for an extra kick.

Step 8

Serve the black pepper tofu hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1116.9 grams (1116.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1156

Total Fat 72.80g	93%
Saturated Fat 10.10g	51%
Polyunsaturated Fat 33.60g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2635mg	115%
Total Carbohydrate 94.00g	34%
Dietary Fiber 22.90g	82%
Total Sugars 26.40g
Protein 57.00g	114%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1026mg	79%
Iron 15mg	83%
Potassium 2322mg	49%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.0%

Protein: 18.1%

Carbs: 29.9%