A Taste of Thailand: Fragrant Thai Tofu Basil Stir-Fry

Few dishes capture the essence of Thai cuisine quite like a basil-infused vegan stir-fry. With its balance of savoury, sweet, and spicy flavours, this Thai Tofu Basil Stir-Fry offers a plant-based take on a much-loved classic. The combination of golden tofu, crunchy cashews, and aromatic Thai basil creates a satisfying dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavourful.

Perfect for a quick midweek meal, this stir-fry comes together in minutes, making it an effortless yet impressive option for both casual dining and entertaining. Serve it over jasmine rice for a comforting, restaurant-quality experience at home.

Ingredients

For the stir-fry:

• 1 tbsp oil

• Handful whole cashews

• 300g firm tofu, crumbled (keep slightly chunky for texture)

• 2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped

• 2 Thai red chillies, sliced (adjust to spice preference)

For the sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 240ml vegetable stock

• 2 tsp cornflour (cornstarch)

• 1 tbsp vegan fish sauce (or substitute with extra soy sauce)

• 3 tbsp hoisin sauce

To finish:

• A handful of fresh Thai basil leaves

• Cooked jasmine rice, to serve

• Extra chilli slices and Thai basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Toast the cashews – Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add the cashews and stir-fry until golden brown.

2. Cook the tofu – In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and crumble in the tofu. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly golden.

3. Sauté the aromatics – Add the white part of the green onions and the minced garlic. Stir-fry for a minute until fragrant.

4. Add the veggies – Toss in the chopped red bell pepper and sliced Thai chillies. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

5. Prepare the sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable stock, cornflour, vegan fish sauce, and hoisin sauce.

6. Combine everything – Pour the sauce into the pan and stir well. Let it simmer and thicken slightly before adding back the toasted cashews.

7. Add Thai basil – Stir in the Thai basil leaves and the green parts of the green onions. Cook for 30 seconds, just until the basil wilts.

8. Serve and enjoy – Spoon the stir-fry over jasmine rice and garnish with extra chilli slices and fresh Thai basil.

Tips for the Best Thai Tofu Basil Stir-Fry

• Use Thai basil rather than sweet basil for an authentic flavour.

• For extra texture, press the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture.

• Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer Thai chillies.

This dish is quick, packed with umami, and perfect for a weeknight meal!