We’ve always been fans of Good Earth Restaurant’s wholesome recipes that bring the flavors of nature to your table. Originating from a commitment to fresh, sustainable ingredients, these dishes capture the essence of earth-friendly cooking we all crave in our busy lives.
Whether you’re recreating their signature salads or hearty mains, our take on these recipes makes it easy to enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home. Let’s dive into the simple steps that keep things delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
We pride ourselves on sourcing fresh, sustainable ingredients that capture the essence of Good Earth Restaurant’s wholesome recipes, ensuring every dish bursts with earthy flavors and vibrant colors. Below, we list the ingredients for our signature Vegetable Stir-Fry, ordered as they are used in preparation, with specific prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Fresh broccoli florets: 2 cups, washed and cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and crisp texture
- Organic carrots: 1 medium, peeled and sliced thinly to add a sweet, crunchy element
- Bell peppers (mixed colors): 1 large, seeded and chopped into strips for a colorful, vitamin-rich boost
- Firm tofu: 8 ounces, drained and cubed to provide plant-based protein with a satisfying bite
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced finely to release aromatic flavors early in the process
- Fresh ginger: 1-inch piece, grated for its zesty, warming notes that enhance the stir-fry’s depth
- Low-sodium soy sauce: ¼ cup, for a savory base that ties everything together without overpowering
- Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons, for stir-frying to impart a nutty aroma and golden finish
- Optional garnishes: A handful of fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, to add a bright, herbaceous touch at the end
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Daily Value % |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
| Vitamin C | 120mg | 133% |
| Fiber | 8g | 29% |
Instructions
With our fresh, vibrant ingredients from Good Earth Restaurant’s signature Vegetable Stir-Fry in hand, we’re ready to transform them into a flavorful, nutrient-packed dish that captures the essence of earth-friendly cooking.
Prep
Before we start cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to ensure everything comes together smoothly and efficiently. Begin by washing all vegetables under cold water to remove any dirt, then pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Chop 2 cups of broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Slice 1 cup of carrots into thin, diagonal cuts to maximize their crisp texture and nutrient release.
- Dice 1 bell pepper (any color) into 1-inch strips, aiming for uniformity to promote consistent stir-frying.
- Cube 8 ounces of firm tofu into 1-inch pieces and press it gently with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, enhancing its ability to absorb flavors.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic and grate 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, releasing their aromatic oils for a punchy base note in the dish.
This step sets the stage for a quick cook, allowing us to focus on the sizzle and savory aromas that make this stir-fry irresistible.
Cook
Let’s bring the heat to our pan and cook the ingredients with precision, building layers of flavor that highlight the fresh, sustainable essence of Good Earth Restaurant recipes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for 30 seconds to release their fragrant, spicy scent without burning.
- Add the cubed tofu to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until it turns golden brown on all sides, creating a crispy exterior that locks in its plant-based protein.
- Introduce the harder vegetables first: toss in the sliced carrots and chopped broccoli, stirring vigorously for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften yet retain their vibrant crunch, infusing the dish with natural sweetness and a satisfying bite.
- Mix in the diced bell pepper and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring all components blend seamlessly while the colors brighten and the kitchen fills with the fresh, earthy aroma of the vegetables.
- For the final touch, pour in 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce and stir everything together for 1 minute, allowing the sauce to coat the ingredients evenly and enhance the umami flavors without overwhelming the natural tastes.
This cooking process not only preserves the nutritional integrity of our ingredients but also delivers a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Assemble
With the cooking complete, we’re set to assemble our Vegetable Stir-Fry into a cohesive, restaurant-quality meal that showcases its wholesome appeal.
- Combine all cooked elements in the pan one last time, tossing gently for 30 seconds to ensure even distribution of flavors and a glossy finish from the soy sauce.
- Serve immediately over 1 cup of steamed brown rice per portion, garnishing with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and visual pop.
- If desired, divide the stir-fry into bowls and top with fresh herbs like cilantro for a burst of color and herbal notes that elevate the dish’s sensory experience.
By following these steps, we create a balanced, nutritious meal that’s ready to enjoy, reflecting the simple yet innovative spirit of Good Earth Restaurant.
Tools and Equipment
To recreate our signature Vegetable Stir-Fry from Good Earth Restaurant, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure efficient preparation and cooking. These items help us handle the chopping, stir-frying, and assembly with precision, making the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We recommend gathering the following tools before starting. This list is organized by the sequence of use in the recipe, from prep to cooking:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip cutting board is crucial for safely chopping and dicing vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. Opt for a large one to accommodate multiple ingredients at once.
- Chef’s Knife: Our go-to chef’s knife with a sharp 8-10 inch blade allows for precise slicing and dicing of tofu, garlic, and ginger. Keep it honed to minimize effort and ensure even cuts.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s balance, so use a set of measuring cups and spoons to portion out soy sauce and other seasonings.
- Wok or Large Skillet: For the heart of stir-frying, a wok (preferably non-stick or carbon steel) provides even heat distribution and ample space to toss vegetables without overcrowding. If unavailable, a 12-inch skillet works as a great alternative.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon is essential for stirring and flipping ingredients like tofu and veggies, preventing them from sticking and helping build those flavorful layers.
- Steamer Basket or Pot: To prepare the base of steamed brown rice, we use a steamer basket that fits over a pot. This ensures the rice cooks perfectly without losing nutrients.
- Mixing Bowls: Set of medium-sized mixing bowls for prepping and marinating ingredients, such as combining garlic and ginger before adding to the wok.
By having these tools ready, we make our Good Earth Restaurant Vegetable Stir-Fry preparation seamless and efficient, allowing home cooks to focus on the fresh flavors and textures that define this dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Good Earth Restaurant Vegetable Stir-Fry even more convenient, we recommend preparing key components in advance. This approach saves time on busy weeknights while preserving the dish’s vibrant flavors and nutritious freshness. By prepping ahead, you can focus on the quick stir-frying process, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal that highlights fresh, sustainable ingredients.
Prepping Vegetables and Tofu
We suggest handling the vegetables and tofu first, as these form the core of the stir-fry. Follow these steps to prepare them up to 24 hours in advance:
- Wash and chop vegetables: Start by thoroughly washing broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and other greens under cold water. Chop them into uniform pieces—such as 1-inch florets for broccoli and thin slices for carrots—to ensure even cooking later. This step maintains their crisp texture and bright colors.
- Press and cube tofu: Drain a block of firm tofu and press it between paper towels or a tofu press for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut it into 1-inch cubes for quick browning. If desired, marinate the cubes in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for enhanced umami depth.
- Prepare aromatics: Mince garlic and ginger finely, then store them in an airtight container. These add the essential spicy warmth that builds layers of flavor in the final dish.
Making Sauces and Mix-Ins
Sauces can be made ahead to streamline assembly and amplify the stir-fry’s earthy, savory notes. Here’s how:
- Whisk together the sauce: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir until well blended, then transfer to a sealed jar. This umami-packed sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to meld.
- Assemble any additional mix-ins: If using optional ingredients like sliced mushrooms or snap peas, clean and prepare them alongside the main vegetables. Store everything in separate containers to prevent sogginess.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping ingredients fresh and retaining their crisp, nutrient-rich qualities. We advise the following based on our experience with Good Earth Restaurant recipes:
- Refrigerate components: Place prepped vegetables and tofu in airtight containers or resealable bags. For optimal freshness, add a paper towel to absorb moisture and store at 40°F (4°C) or below. Tofu should be used within 24 hours to avoid texture loss.
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Time | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chopped Vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | 24 hours | Retains crunch and vitamins |
| Marinated Tofu | Sealed bag in fridge | 24 hours | Enhances flavor absorption |
| Prepared Sauce | Glass jar in fridge | 3 days | Allows flavors to intensify |
When you’re ready to cook, simply remove the components from the fridge and proceed with the stir-frying steps from our earlier section. This method ensures your Vegetable Stir-Fry remains a wholesome, effortless delight that embodies the innovative spirit of Good Earth Restaurant.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring these wholesome Good Earth Restaurant recipes with you. They’re a fantastic way to embrace fresh, sustainable eating right at home.
By trying them, you’ll discover how easy it is to create nutritious meals that nourish both body and planet. Let’s make these dishes a staple in our kitchens for a brighter, healthier future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the article about?
This article explores Good Earth Restaurant’s wholesome recipes, focusing on fresh, sustainable ingredients for earth-friendly cooking. It provides simple steps to recreate signature dishes like Vegetable Stir-Fry at home, emphasizing easy preparation, nutritional benefits, and restaurant-quality results in just a few steps.
What are the key ingredients in the Vegetable Stir-Fry?
The main ingredients include fresh broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, tofu, garlic, and ginger. These vibrant veggies and protein-packed tofu create a nutritious, flavorful dish. Preparation involves washing, chopping, and dicing for optimal texture, with soy sauce added for umami.
How do you cook the Vegetable Stir-Fry?
Start by heating oil in a wok or skillet, then sauté garlic and ginger. Add tofu and stir-fry until golden, followed by vegetables in stages to keep them crisp. Finish with soy sauce, serve over steamed brown rice, and garnish with sesame seeds and herbs for a delicious, layered flavor.
What tools are needed to make this recipe?
You’ll need a sturdy cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, measuring cups and spoons, a wok or large skillet, spatula or wooden spoon, steamer basket or pot, and mixing bowls. These essentials ensure efficient prep and cooking, helping you focus on fresh flavors.
Can I prepare the Vegetable Stir-Fry in advance?
Yes, prep vegetables and tofu up to 24 hours ahead by washing, chopping, and marinating tofu for extra flavor. Make sauces in advance too. Store ingredients in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain freshness and nutrients, making weeknight cooking effortless.
What are the health benefits of this dish?
The Vegetable Stir-Fry is packed with nutrients: it’s low in calories, high in protein from tofu, and rich in vitamin C and fiber from veggies. This balanced meal supports overall health, promotes digestion, and provides sustained energy, aligning with Good Earth Restaurant’s sustainable ethos.