Copycat Panda Express Spicy Eggplant & Tofu

Bring the bold, spicy flavors of Panda Express home with this delicious copycat Spicy Eggplant & Tofu recipe! Crispy tofu, tender eggplant, and colorful bell peppers are tossed in a savory, spicy sauce for a satisfying vegetarian stir-fry that’s perfect with steamed rice.

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Spicy Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (like Sambal Oelek)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu:
   Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes and toss with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
   Heat 1.5 tablespoons oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden and crispy on all sides (about 6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Eggplant:
   Add another 1.5 tablespoons oil to the pan. Add eggplant cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and tender (about 6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside with the tofu.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
   In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, onion, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
4. Make the Sauce:
   In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and water.
5. Combine Everything:
   Return tofu and eggplant to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the vegetables and tofu.
6. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Panda Express Spicy Eggplant & Tofu!

Ingredient Tip: If you need chili garlic sauce, you can find it here on Amazon.