This Tofu Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick and colorful dish with fresh vegetables and soft tofu all cooked together in a tasty sauce. It’s a healthy, satisfying meal perfect for busy nights.
I like to throw in my favorite crunchy bell peppers or snow peas. Sometimes I add a splash of soy sauce just to make it extra tasty!
I serve it over rice or noodles, so everything soaks up the flavor. It’s a fun, simple way to enjoy lots of veggies in one plate!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: I use firm tofu because it holds up well when stir-frying. For extra flavor, press out excess water first. If you prefer a different protein, tempeh or chicken work nicely too.
Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots adds crunch and color. Feel free to swap in snap peas or zucchini for variety. Fresh is best, but frozen works if drained well.
Garlic & Ginger: These two bring a punch of flavor. Use fresh for the best taste—mince garlic and grate ginger just before cooking. Dried garlic powder or ground ginger can work in a pinch.
Soy Sauce & Sesame Oil: The soy provides salty umami, while sesame oil lends a toasty aroma. Light soy is good for less salt; dark soy adds depth. A splash of rice vinegar can brighten the dish.
How do I keep tofu crispy in a stir-fry?
First, press excess water from tofu. Cube and toss with a little cornstarch. Heat oil on medium-high, then add tofu in a single layer. Don’t move it too early—let it crisp up for 2-3 minutes before turning.
- Use enough oil to coat the pan—non-stick works well. Wait until the oil is hot before adding tofu.
- Handle tofu gently to avoid breaking. Turn pieces carefully using a spatula or tongs.
- If needed, cook tofu in batches to prevent overcrowding and sogginess.
How to Make Tofu Vegetable Stir-Fry?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 14 oz (400 g) firm tofu
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep + 15 minutes cooking = 25 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the tofu
Press the tofu to remove excess water. Cut it into 1-inch cubes. Toss with a little soy sauce for flavor and set aside.
2. Cook the tofu
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Stir-fry the vegetables
In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Cook garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Add vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Combine and finish
Return tofu to the skillet. Mix soy sauce and cornstarch with a little water, then pour over the stir-fry. Cook everything together for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
