Crispy tofu with vegetables in garlic sauce
Vegan Tofu Stir Fry
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4
4 servings
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Vegan Tofu Stir Fry
Crispy tofu with vegetables in garlic sauce
★4.9(18)
Extra-firm tofu pressed and pan-fried until golden, then tossed with broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers in a savory garlic-ginger sauce.
15m
Prep Time
15m
Cook Time
30m
Total Time
4
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
The secret to restaurant-quality tofu stir fry is pressing and cornstarch. Removing the water and dusting with starch creates an incredibly crispy exterior that soaks up the sauce.
Chinese cooking techniques — high heat, quick movement, and precise timing — produce flavors that no other method can match. This recipe captures that magic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Press tofu for 15 minutes, cut into cubes, and toss with cornstarch until coated.
- 2
Heat sesame oil in a wok over high heat. Fry tofu 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden on all sides. Remove.
- 3
In the same wok, stir-fry broccoli and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
- 4
Add garlic and ginger, cook 30 seconds. Pour in soy sauce and 2 tbsp water.
- 5
Return tofu to the wok, toss everything together, and serve over rice.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve over steamed jasmine or sticky rice
Pair with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi
Add a drizzle of sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor
Substitutions
TofuTempeh or edamame
Different textures but equally protein-rich
Soy sauceCoconut aminos
Soy-free alternative with similar umami flavor
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Use a tofu press or wrap in towels with a heavy skillet on top for at least 15 minutes.
Do not stir the tofu too frequently—let each side develop a crust before turning.
Let the protein rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Season each component individually rather than seasoning at the end — this builds deeper, more complex flavor throughout.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Reheat in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes to partially restore crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (0mg) · 4 servings
Calories260
LowModerateHigh
A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein12g
Carbohydrates22g
Fat18g
Fiber520mg
Sugar4g
Sodium3g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is my tofu soggy?
- It was not pressed long enough or the pan was not hot enough. Both steps are essential.
- Can I use tempeh instead?
- Yes, slice and pan-fry tempeh the same way. It has a nuttier flavor and holds up well.
Explore More
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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