Tofu stir fry is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Crispy tofu, fresh vegetables, and a simple sauce create a flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tofu
Press the tofu for 10–15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. Toss the tofu with cornstarch and soy sauce to create a light coating.
2. Cook the Tofu
Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Stir Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, heat vegetable oil. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Add garlic and ginger, then stir for another 30 seconds.
4. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, cornstarch slurry, and sesame oil.
5. Combine Everything
Return the crispy tofu to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir well. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Tips for the Best Tofu Stir Fry
- Press the tofu well for a crispier texture.
- Keep the veggies slightly crisp for a fresh bite.
- Adjust the sauce’s sweetness or saltiness to your preference.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tofu stir fry is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe delivers amazing results with minimal effort.
Quick and Easy for Busy Days
If you’re short on time, this recipe comes to the rescue. From start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in less than half an hour. The cooking process is straightforward, and you won’t need fancy equipment — just a pan or wok and a few staple ingredients.
Crispy Tofu That’s Packed with Flavor
Many people struggle with cooking tofu because it can turn out bland or soggy. This recipe solves that problem. Pressing the tofu removes excess moisture, while the cornstarch coating creates a crispy texture that soaks up the savory sauce. Every bite is bursting with flavor and crunch.
Healthy and Nutritious
This tofu stir fry isn’t just delicious — it’s also packed with nutrients. Tofu provides plant-based protein, while the colorful vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The homemade sauce skips artificial additives, making this a wholesome meal you can feel good about.
Easily Customizable
One of the best things about stir fry is how adaptable it is. You can swap in your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or even try different sauces. Want more protein? Add tempeh or chickpeas. Prefer a low-carb option? Serve it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you love having ready-to-go meals during the week, this recipe is ideal. Make a batch ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat for quick lunches or dinners. It keeps well for several days, and the flavors develop even more over time.
Great for All Diets
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just trying to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this tofu stir fry fits the bill. It’s dairy-free, egg-free, and can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
This recipe proves that eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring. With the perfect balance of crispy tofu, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
