Name: Tofu Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 small zucchini, sliced; 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced; 1/2 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for sauce); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional); Cooked rice or noodles for serving

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tofu Stir Fry is one of those recipes that delivers big on flavor without taking much time or effort. The tofu is crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside, perfectly paired with fresh, vibrant vegetables. The stir fry sauce adds just the right amount of savory sweetness, and you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with rice, noodles, or on its own!

Ingredients

1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small zucchini, sliced
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
1/2 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce (for sauce)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Place the block of tofu between two paper towels or clean kitchen towels, and put something heavy on top (like a pan) for about 15-20 minutes.
Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into cubes. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the sesame oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, carrot, and onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the vegetables and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce (for sauce), and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
Return the tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the stir fry sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Stir everything together until well coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat and serve the stir fry over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in this stir fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the bell peppers, zucchini, and carrot for any other vegetables you like. Broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn would all be great additions.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Tofu Stir Fry can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Just be sure to check that your hoisin sauce is also gluten-free if needed.

Can I use extra-firm tofu instead of firm tofu?

Yes, extra-firm tofu will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind it may require a bit more pressing to remove excess moisture before cooking.

How can I make this stir fry spicier?

To add some heat to the stir fry, you can toss in some red pepper flakes, sriracha, or sliced fresh chilies. Add to taste based on how spicy you like your food.

Can I make this recipe without sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute with vegetable oil or olive oil. While it won’t have the same nutty flavor, it will still be delicious.

How do I make the tofu crispy?

To get crispy tofu, make sure to press out as much moisture as possible before cooking. Use a hot pan and don’t overcrowd the tofu cubes while frying. You may need to cook the tofu in batches for the crispiest results.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can press and cube the tofu, chop the vegetables, and even mix the stir fry sauce in advance. When ready to cook, just sauté and assemble everything.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

You can use frozen vegetables in place of fresh ones if that’s more convenient for you. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the stir fry.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly, as long as the hoisin sauce you use is vegan (some hoisin sauces contain non-vegan ingredients).

What can I serve this stir fry with?

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles. It’s also delicious served on its own if you’re looking to keep it light.

Conclusion

This Tofu Stir Fry is a satisfying and versatile dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a long-time tofu lover or new to plant-based meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With the perfect balance of crispy tofu, fresh vegetables, and a savory stir fry sauce, it’s a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Tofu Stir Fry

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This Tofu Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein-rich tofu and vibrant vegetables, it’s customizable, easy to make, and great for meal prep. The savory stir fry sauce ties everything together, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy plant-based meals. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a delicious option served with rice or noodles.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 20min
Total Time: 35min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir Fry
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

Press the tofu: Place tofu between two paper towels or clean towels and set something heavy on top for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Cube the tofu: After pressing, cut tofu into cubes.
Cook tofu: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, heat sesame oil. Add bell peppers, zucchini, carrot, and onion, and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender but crisp.
Add garlic and ginger: Stir in garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce (for sauce), and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
Combine: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Stir until well coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve over rice or noodles, garnishing with sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Feel free to swap the vegetables for your favorites like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
To make the dish spicier, add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or fresh chilies to taste.
If you don’t have sesame oil, substitute with olive or vegetable oil.
To get crispy tofu, make sure to press it thoroughly and cook it in batches if necessary.