Crispy Tofu & Delicata Squash Recipe – Easy Asian-Inspired Stir-Fry

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Crispy Tofu & Delicata Squash Recipe – Easy Asian-Inspired Stir-Fry

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you. It’s become a real weeknight staple in my kitchen – a vibrant, flavorful stir-fry that’s surprisingly easy to throw together. I first made this when I was craving something comforting but also wanted to pack in a bunch of veggies. This Crispy Tofu & Delicata Squash recipe hits all the right notes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average stir-fry. The combination of crispy tofu, subtly sweet delicata squash, and slightly crunchy long beans is just chef’s kiss. It’s a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to your preferences – vegan, gluten-free, spicier… you name it!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious stir-fry:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Half a block extra firm tofu (about 200-250g)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 delicata squash, sliced (about 300g)
• 15-18 long beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Crushed black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Tofu Selection & Preparation

Extra firm tofu is key here. It holds its shape beautifully when fried and gets wonderfully crispy. Pressing the tofu is also super important – it removes excess water, which helps with crisping. I usually wrap it in paper towels and weigh it down with a heavy pan for about 20-30 minutes.

Delicata Squash: A Unique Winter Squash

Delicata squash is my favorite! It has a lovely, slightly sweet flavor and a tender skin, so you don’t even need to peel it. If you can’t find delicata, butternut squash is a good substitute, but you’ll need to peel it.

Long Beans: Regional Variations & Substitutions

Long beans (also known as yardlong beans) have a unique texture and a slightly grassy flavor. They’re common in many Asian cuisines. If you can’t find them, green beans are a perfectly good substitute.

Olive Oil vs. Other Stir-Fry Oils

I like using olive oil for its flavor, but you can definitely use other stir-fry oils like peanut oil or vegetable oil. Just make sure it has a high smoke point.

Soy Sauce: Choosing the Right Type

I usually use regular soy sauce, but you can also use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a great gluten-free option (more on that later!).

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Crisp up the tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and fry in a single layer until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan – work in batches if needed! Drain the crispy tofu on paper towels.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then, add the sliced red onion and cook until it caramelizes – this takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the veggies: Add the sliced delicata squash and long beans to the skillet. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of water, cover, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the squash is tender-crisp.
4. Bring it all together: Stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the crispy tofu and mix well to coat everything in the sauce.
5. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and toss with sesame seeds. Serve immediately with your favorite grain!

Expert Tips

Want to take this stir-fry to the next level? Here are a few of my go-to tips:

Achieving Maximum Crispiness with Tofu

Pressing is key, as mentioned before! Also, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the tofu, and don’t move it around too much while it’s frying. Let it get nice and golden brown on each side.

Perfectly Tender-Crisp Vegetables

Don’t overcook the squash and long beans! You want them to be tender but still have a little bit of crunch.

Balancing Flavors in the Stir-Fry

Taste as you go! Adjust the amount of soy sauce, salt, and pepper to your liking. A little bit of sweetness (like a drizzle of maple syrup) can also be a nice addition.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile. Here are a few ideas to customize it:

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your soy sauce to make sure it doesn’t contain any hidden animal products.

Gluten-Free Adaptation (Soy Sauce Alternatives)

If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a Japanese soy sauce that’s typically made without wheat.

Spice Level Adjustment

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the stir-fry for a little heat. My friend loves adding a finely chopped chili!

Quick Weeknight Version

Short on time? Use pre-cut squash and long beans. You can also skip pressing the tofu (it won’t be quite as crispy, but it’ll still be delicious).

Serving Suggestions

This stir-fry is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better with a side of:

• Quinoa
• Brown rice
• Noodles (rice noodles or soba noodles work well)
• A simple green salad

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave. The tofu might lose a little bit of its crispiness, but it will still taste great!

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is the best way to press tofu for this recipe?

Wrapping the tofu in paper towels and weighing it down with a heavy pan is the easiest method. You can also use a tofu press if you have one.

Can I use other types of squash instead of delicata?

Yes! Butternut squash is a good substitute, but you’ll need to peel it. Acorn squash also works, but it has a slightly different flavor.

Are long beans the same as green beans? Can I substitute?

No, long beans are much longer and thinner than green beans. But green beans are a perfectly good substitute if you can’t find long beans.

How can I make this stir-fry ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients (chop the veggies, press the tofu) ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. Then, just cook the stir-fry when you’re ready to eat.

What side dishes pair well with this tofu and squash stir-fry?

A simple green salad, quinoa, or brown rice are all great options. You could also add a side of steamed edamame.

Enjoy! I really hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions. Happy cooking!