Pan-Fried Tofu with Spinach, Pear, and Star Anise

Name: Pan-Fried Tofu with Spinach, Pear, and Star Anise
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 block extra-firm tofu, 15 ounces, halved horizontally; 2 tablespoons peanut oil; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger, peeled; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 fresh red chile, cut in paper-thin circles; 3 whole star anise; 1/3 cup roasted peanuts; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce; Juice of 1/2 lime; 2 pounds baby spinach; 1 pear or Asian pear, sliced into thin wedges

Servings: persons

1 block extra-firm tofu, 15 ounces, halved horizontally
2 tablespoons peanut oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger, peeled
1 garlic clove, minced
1 fresh red chile, cut in paper-thin circles
3 whole star anise
1/3 cup roasted peanuts
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
Juice of 1/2 lime
2 pounds baby spinach
1 pear or Asian pear, sliced into thin wedges

1
Lay several layers of paper towels on a cutting board, then place the tofu squares on top, side by side.
2
Cover the tofu with more paper towels and place a plate on top.
3
Add a can or two to press down and drain out some of the water in the curd.
4
This makes the tofu denser and meatier.
5
In a large skillet, heat the peanut and sesame oils just to the smoking point.
6
Fry the tofu on both sides, flipping occasionally with the spatula, until golden, about 8 minutes total.
7
Remove the tofu from the pan and drain it on a plate lined with paper towels.
8
Using the same pan, saute the ginger, garlic, chile, star anise, and peanutsyour kitchen will smell amazing!
9
In a small bowl, mix the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice together.
10
Briefly toss the spinach in the pan, stirring just to wilt, no more than 30 seconds.
11
Remove the spinach to a bowl, scraping the peanut mixture in there also.
12
Put the pan back on the heat and heat the hoisin mixture.
13
Combine the sauce with the spinach and divide between 2 bowls.
14
Lay the pear slices and tofu on top.

237

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 block extra-firm tofu, 15 ounces, halved horizontally, 2 tablespoons peanut oil, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger, peeled, and more.

Yes, Pan-Fried Tofu with Spinach, Pear, and Star Anise falls under the Vegetarian category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!