25+ Delicious Chinese New Year Tofu Recipes for a Flavorful Celebration

Chinese New Year is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and, of course, delicious food.

For many, this holiday is all about rich traditions and symbolic dishes that bring good fortune and prosperity in the year ahead.

One of the most versatile ingredients in Chinese cuisine is tofu, which is often used in various forms to symbolize health, longevity, and abundance.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to add some variety to your festive meals, tofu is a great choice for Chinese New Year recipes.

In this article, we’ll explore 25+ Chinese New Year tofu recipes that are not only delicious but also embody the spirit of the holiday.

From savory stir-fries to crispy appetizers, these recipes will make your celebrations even more memorable.

25+ Delicious Chinese New Year Tofu Recipes for a Flavorful Celebration

As we usher in a new year filled with possibilities, the food we enjoy plays an important role in marking the occasion.

Tofu, with its rich history in Chinese cuisine, is a perfect ingredient to celebrate the traditions and symbolism of Chinese New Year.

Whether you’re preparing a lavish feast or simply looking for light and healthy dishes to complement your meal, the 25+ Chinese New Year tofu recipes provided here offer a variety of flavors and textures to please every palate.

These dishes not only highlight tofu’s versatility but also ensure that your celebrations are filled with prosperity, happiness, and good fortune.

Enjoy your holiday feast and may the year ahead be as flavorful and fulfilling as the meals you prepare!

Stir-Fried Tofu with Sweet Chili Sauce

This vibrant dish combines crispy tofu with a tangy and slightly spicy sweet chili sauce. It’s a fantastic dish to serve during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing the hope for a prosperous and sweet year ahead. With the added crunch of bell peppers, onions, and a medley of other vegetables, this tofu recipe is not only flavorful but also packed with color and nutrition.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Begin by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess water. Cut it into cubes, then toss the cubes in cornstarch to coat them lightly.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes in batches, frying them until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the tofu and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the garlic, onion, and carrot until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
6. Return the crispy tofu to the pan and pour the sauce mixture over. Toss gently to coat the tofu and vegetables evenly.
7. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro before serving.

This Stir-Fried Tofu with Sweet Chili Sauce is a delightful dish that offers a balance of textures and flavors. The crispy tofu, fresh vegetables, and sweet-spicy sauce create an irresistible combination that is both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for Chinese New Year, it symbolizes happiness, prosperity, and the promise of a sweet future ahead. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice for a complete and comforting meal.

Tofu with Shiitake Mushrooms and Bok Choy

Tofu with Shiitake Mushrooms and Bok Choy is a rich, savory dish perfect for a festive Chinese New Year meal. It blends the earthy flavors of shiitake mushrooms with the mild taste of tofu, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. Bok choy adds a fresh, crispy texture, making this recipe a nutritious and well-rounded choice for the holiday feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups bok choy, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Set aside.
2. In the same pan, add a bit more oil and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
4. Stir in the bok choy and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until it starts to wilt.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and vegetable broth.
6. Pour the sauce into the pan with the mushrooms and bok choy, and bring to a simmer.
7. Return the tofu to the pan, stirring gently to coat the tofu with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
8. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This Tofu with Shiitake Mushrooms and Bok Choy recipe is a perfect choice for a Chinese New Year meal, offering a beautiful combination of savory, earthy, and fresh flavors. The dish’s vibrant colors, such as the deep brown mushrooms, the white tofu, and the green bok choy, make it visually appealing and fitting for a celebratory feast. It’s a healthy and satisfying dish that embodies the spirit of abundance and good health, making it a wonderful addition to any festive spread.

Braised Tofu with Five-Spice Sauce

Braised Tofu with Five-Spice Sauce is a classic Chinese New Year dish that incorporates the aromatic flavors of Chinese five-spice powder. The tofu absorbs the rich sauce, making each bite tender and full of flavor. This dish is a symbolic choice for the New Year, as the five-spice mix represents harmony and balance, aligning with the hopes for a balanced and prosperous year.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and sliced into thick pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the tofu slices and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the soy sauce, rice wine, brown sugar, and Chinese five-spice powder, stirring to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
6. Return the tofu to the pan and gently spoon the sauce over the pieces. Let the tofu braise in the sauce for another 5-7 minutes, ensuring it soaks up the flavors.
7. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Braised Tofu with Five-Spice Sauce is a fragrant, flavorful dish that symbolizes balance and harmony—key themes for Chinese New Year. The tofu, perfectly braised in the rich, aromatic sauce, offers a satisfying and comforting meal. This recipe is a great choice for those looking to enjoy a hearty, plant-based dish that celebrates the New Year with good fortune and balance. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, making it an ideal addition to any holiday feast.

Crispy Tofu with Sesame Garlic Sauce

This Crispy Tofu with Sesame Garlic Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances crispy, golden tofu with a rich, savory, and slightly sweet sauce. The sesame garlic sauce is packed with umami flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for Chinese New Year. It symbolizes the desire for a prosperous year ahead with the addition of sesame, often seen as a symbol of longevity and good fortune.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Coat each cube with cornstarch.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and fry, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per batch.
3. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), garlic, and sesame oil. Heat over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Remove the crispy tofu from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Pour the sesame garlic sauce over the tofu, then toss gently to coat.
6. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, chili flakes (if using), and chopped green onions before serving.

Crispy Tofu with Sesame Garlic Sauce is an irresistible dish that blends texture and flavor beautifully. The crispy tofu provides a satisfying crunch while the sesame garlic sauce imparts a depth of flavor that makes it impossible to resist. This dish is a perfect way to kick off your Chinese New Year celebration, offering good fortune with the rich flavor of sesame and the promise of happiness with every bite.

Tofu and Vegetable Dumplings

Tofu and Vegetable Dumplings are a wonderful vegetarian option for Chinese New Year. These dumplings are filled with a savory mix of tofu, cabbage, and mushrooms, wrapped in a soft yet chewy dough. Perfect for steaming or pan-frying, they symbolize wealth and prosperity because of their shape, resembling gold ingots. These dumplings are a great choice for adding variety and flavor to your celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
• 1 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Dumpling wrappers (store-bought or homemade)
• Vegetable oil for pan-frying (if pan-frying)
• Soy sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled tofu, chopped napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and cornstarch. Mix well to form the dumpling filling.
2. Place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface and spoon a small amount of the tofu mixture into the center.
3. Fold the wrapper over the filling and seal the edges by pleating the sides. Pinch the top to ensure it’s securely closed.
4. To steam the dumplings, line a bamboo steamer with parchment paper, then place the dumplings inside and steam over boiling water for about 10-12 minutes.
   • To pan-fry, heat a bit of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the dumplings and fry until the bottoms are golden brown. Then, add a splash of water, cover the pan, and steam for 5 minutes until the dumplings are cooked through.
5. Serve the dumplings with soy sauce for dipping.

Tofu and Vegetable Dumplings are a delightful and symbolic dish for Chinese New Year, representing prosperity and abundance. The combination of tofu, cabbage, and mushrooms creates a balanced filling that is both savory and satisfying. Whether steamed or pan-fried, these dumplings offer a delicious way to celebrate the holiday and share good fortune with friends and family.

Braised Tofu with Black Bean Sauce

Braised Tofu with Black Bean Sauce is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for the Chinese New Year table. The deep umami of black bean sauce complements the tofu, creating a rich and comforting dish that is full of flavor. This dish is traditionally enjoyed during special occasions as black beans are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, sliced into thick pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons fermented black bean paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the tofu slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add garlic and onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the fermented black bean paste, soy sauce, rice wine, vegetable broth, and sugar. Mix well and bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Return the fried tofu slices to the pan and braise them in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors.
5. Drizzle the sesame oil over the dish and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Braised Tofu with Black Bean Sauce is a rich, savory dish that makes for a perfect centerpiece during Chinese New Year. The fermented black bean sauce infuses the tofu with deep, umami flavors, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that represents good luck and prosperity. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate plant-based dishes into their holiday meal while still honoring traditional flavors.

Sweet and Sour Tofu

Sweet and Sour Tofu is a delicious, tangy dish that combines crispy tofu with a vibrant, sweet, and sour sauce. It’s a beloved Chinese-inspired dish that’s not only easy to make but also full of flavor. Perfect for celebrating Chinese New Year, this dish symbolizes the balance of opposites and the hope for a harmonious year ahead. The mix of sweet, sour, and savory flavors represents a wish for prosperity, good health, and happiness.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture and cut it into cubes. Coat the tofu cubes with cornstarch.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the bell pepper, onion, and pineapple chunks for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and water to make the sweet and sour sauce.
5. Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Return the crispy tofu to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the tofu soak up the flavors.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Sweet and Sour Tofu is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together bold, tangy flavors with crispy tofu. It’s the perfect addition to any Chinese New Year feast, offering a burst of flavor and a symbol of harmony in the new year. The balance between sweetness and sourness is sure to delight everyone at the table, and the dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger and Scallions

Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger and Scallions is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that highlights the fresh, aromatic flavors of ginger and scallions. This dish is perfect for Chinese New Year as it represents fresh beginnings and a prosperous year ahead. The simplicity of the tofu, ginger, and scallions brings a fragrant harmony that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bunch scallions, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture and cut it into cubes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and stir-fry until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add sesame oil and sauté the garlic, ginger, and white parts of the scallions for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, vegetable broth, and chili flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. If you want a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a bit of cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the pan.
6. Add the fried tofu back into the pan and toss everything together to coat the tofu with the sauce. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
7. Garnish with the green parts of the scallions and serve hot.

Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger and Scallions is a light yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a healthy and vibrant Chinese New Year. The aromatic ginger and fresh scallions infuse the tofu with a beautiful, fragrant essence that elevates the dish. It’s a wonderful choice for those looking for a lighter meal that still carries the flavors of the holiday while symbolizing fresh beginnings and growth.

Tofu with Spicy Garlic and Broccoli

Tofu with Spicy Garlic and Broccoli is a savory, spicy, and satisfying dish perfect for a Chinese New Year feast. The crispy tofu and tender broccoli are bathed in a spicy, garlicky sauce that offers bold flavors with every bite. This dish symbolizes the vitality of the new year, bringing health and energy with the powerful combination of garlic and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili paste or sambal oelek
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tofu until crispy and golden, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes, just until they begin to soften.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, sugar, sesame oil, and water.
4. Add the garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sauce mixture to the pan and bring to a simmer.
5. If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the crispy tofu to the pan and toss everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the tofu and broccoli to soak up the sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Tofu with Spicy Garlic and Broccoli is a flavorful and energizing dish that packs a punch. The garlic and chili create a spicy kick, while the tofu and broccoli offer a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor. Perfect for ringing in the new year, this dish represents vitality, good health, and the energy to take on the year ahead. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tofu with Black Bean Sauce

Tofu with Black Bean Sauce is a flavorful, savory dish featuring tofu cooked in a rich, umami-packed black bean sauce. This dish is popular in Chinese cuisine and symbolizes prosperity and abundance, making it a great choice for Chinese New Year. The black bean sauce imparts deep, earthy flavors that complement the tofu’s soft texture, while the dish’s simplicity allows the bold flavors to shine.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons fermented black beans (rinsed and mashed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden and crispy on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the tofu and set it aside.
3. In the same pan, add a little more oil and sauté the garlic, black beans, onion, and bell pepper for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
4. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and vegetable broth to the pan. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water and stir into the pan. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Return the crispy tofu to the pan and toss to coat it with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the sauce.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve over cooked rice.

Tofu with Black Bean Sauce is a savory, satisfying dish that delivers both depth of flavor and a hearty texture. The fermented black beans add a unique richness, making this dish both indulgent and deeply satisfying. As a symbol of prosperity, this dish is ideal for Chinese New Year, offering a delicious way to ring in the new year while celebrating abundance and good fortune.

Tofu and Bok Choy Stir-Fry

Tofu and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a healthy and delicious dish that combines tender tofu with vibrant bok choy and a savory stir-fry sauce. It’s a quick and easy dish to prepare, making it perfect for busy days during Chinese New Year celebrations. The bok choy symbolizes new beginnings and renewal, while the tofu offers a rich source of plant-based protein, making it a nutritious and flavorful dish for the new year.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 heads bok choy, chopped
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable broth or water
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the tofu and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add sesame oil and sauté the ginger and garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the bok choy and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it begins to wilt but still retains its bright green color.
5. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and vegetable broth to the pan. Stir well to combine.
6. Return the tofu to the pan and toss everything together to coat the tofu and bok choy with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.

Tofu and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that celebrates the health and prosperity associated with Chinese New Year. The bok choy brings freshness and vitality, while the tofu provides a hearty base. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce creates a balanced, savory flavor that enhances both the tofu and the vegetables. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying meal to start the year off right.

Spicy Tofu and Eggplant Stir-Fry

Spicy Tofu and Eggplant Stir-Fry is a flavorful, bold dish that brings together the richness of eggplant and the hearty texture of tofu, all coated in a spicy sauce. This dish is full of umami, with a nice balance of heat and savory flavors. Perfect for a Chinese New Year feast, it represents energy and passion, with the spiciness symbolizing the excitement and fire of a fresh new year.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 medium eggplants, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the eggplant cubes and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add a bit more oil if necessary.
4. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, brown sugar, and water. Pour the sauce into the pan with the eggplant and bring it to a simmer.
6. If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Return the tofu to the pan and toss everything together to coat in the spicy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
8. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Spicy Tofu and Eggplant Stir-Fry is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings energy and spice to your Chinese New Year celebrations. The combination of eggplant and tofu absorbs the savory, spicy sauce, making every bite a satisfying experience. This dish not only adds excitement to the feast but also symbolizes the fiery energy of the new year, making it a perfect choice to kick off a season of prosperity and growth.

Tofu and Shiitake Mushroom Hot Pot

Tofu and Shiitake Mushroom Hot Pot is a comforting and aromatic dish perfect for Chinese New Year celebrations. The combination of tofu, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and a flavorful broth represents harmony and peace. Hot pots are a popular dish during Chinese New Year, symbolizing unity and togetherness as everyone gathers around to enjoy the meal. This dish is both nourishing and heartwarming, making it a wonderful addition to any holiday feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
• 1/2 pound shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon miso paste
• 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 cup bok choy, chopped
• 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and shiitake mushrooms. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms soften and release their juices.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, miso paste, and chili paste (if using). Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the tofu cubes and bok choy to the pot, and simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the tofu is heated through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce or miso if needed.
5. Ladle the hot pot into bowls, garnish with green onions and cilantro, and serve hot.

Tofu and Shiitake Mushroom Hot Pot is a wonderfully comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth and togetherness to the table. The combination of soft tofu and umami-rich mushrooms in a savory broth makes this dish perfect for cold winter evenings during Chinese New Year. It embodies peace and unity, two essential themes of the holiday, while offering a satisfying meal that nourishes the body and soul.

Crispy Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce

Crispy Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce is a delightful dish that combines crispy fried tofu with a tangy, flavorful sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity. Sweet and sour dishes are commonly enjoyed during Chinese New Year, symbolizing the harmony of opposites and the hope for a balanced and prosperous year ahead. This dish is perfect for anyone who enjoys the contrast of crispy and tender textures with a bold, zesty flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Dredge the tofu cubes in cornstarch, coating them evenly.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu cubes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the tofu and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Add the pineapple chunks, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and ketchup. Stir to combine, bringing the sauce to a simmer.
5. For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water and stir it into the pan. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the crispy tofu cubes to the pan and toss everything together to coat the tofu in the sweet and sour sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional pineapple or green onions, if desired.

Crispy Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce is a crowd-pleasing dish that offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy tofu contrasts beautifully with the sweet, tangy sauce, making it an unforgettable treat for Chinese New Year. This dish embodies the theme of balance and harmony, offering a delicious way to celebrate the new year and all the good things to come.

Tofu and Vegetable Spring Rolls

Tofu and Vegetable Spring Rolls are a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for Chinese New Year gatherings. These spring rolls are filled with fresh vegetables and tofu, offering a crispy yet tender texture with every bite. Spring rolls symbolize wealth and prosperity, making them a traditional choice for the holiday. Served with a dipping sauce, these rolls are perfect for appetizers or a light meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cucumber, julienned
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 8 rice paper wrappers
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Dipping Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon chili paste (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
2. Soak the rice paper wrappers in warm water for about 20-30 seconds until soft and pliable.
3. Place a rice paper wrapper on a flat surface. Lay a few strips of tofu, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and cilantro in the center.
4. Drizzle a small amount of the prepared sauce over the fillings, then fold in the sides and roll the wrapper tightly to form a spring roll.
5. Repeat the process with the remaining rice papers and filling ingredients.
6. For the dipping sauce, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili paste in a small bowl.
7. Serve the spring rolls with the dipping sauce on the side.

Tofu and Vegetable Spring Rolls are a healthy, vibrant, and delicious choice for celebrating Chinese New Year. These rolls are full of fresh ingredients that symbolize health and prosperity, making them a great way to start the festivities. With their light, crisp texture and savory dipping sauce, they are the perfect appetizer or snack for your holiday spread. The simplicity of these spring rolls allows the freshness of the vegetables and tofu to shine, making them both refreshing and satisfying.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!