Thai Basil Tofu

Instructions

1. Prepare the tofu
   Press the tofu between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes and set aside. For extra crispiness, you can lightly dust the tofu with cornstarch before cooking.
2. Make the sauce
   In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely and set aside.
3. Stir-fry the tofu
   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the tofu cubes and stir-fry until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the tofu and set aside, leaving any remaining oil in the pan.
4. Cook aromatics and vegetables
   Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add garlic and chilies, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced bell pepper and onion, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
5. Combine and season
   Return the tofu to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and the tablespoon of vegetable stock or water. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
6. Add the basil
   Turn off the heat and add the Thai basil leaves. Quickly stir to combine, allowing the residual heat to wilt the basil while maintaining its vibrant green color and aromatic flavor.
7. Serve
   Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice. For an authentic Thai meal, serve with a fried egg on top or a cucumber salad on the side.