Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Meal

RECIPES

2/28/20253 min read

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, healthy, and packed with flavor, this Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu is a winner.

It’s colorful, crunchy, and coated in a delicious sauce that ties everything together. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Even if you’re not the biggest tofu fan, I promise this dish will change your mind.

The key is getting the tofu crispy and pairing it with fresh veggies and a killer stir-fry sauce.

So now, let’s get started cooking though!

What You’ll Need:

For the Tofu:

  • 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)

For the Stir Fry:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil)

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 cup broccoli florets

  • 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced

  • 1 zucchini, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional but adds great flavor)

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)

  • 1/4 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Tofu

  1. Drain and Press – Remove the tofu from its package, wrap it in a clean towel, and place a heavy object (like a pan or book) on top. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to press out excess water.

  2. Cut into Cubes – Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

  3. Coat for Crispiness – In a bowl, toss the tofu with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. This helps give it a crispy texture when cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Tofu

  1. Heat the Pan – Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.

  2. Cook Until Golden – Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they’re golden brown on all sides.

  3. Remove and Set Aside – Once crispy, transfer the tofu to a plate.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Veggies

  1. Add More Oil – In the same pan, add another 1 tablespoon of oil.

  2. Cook the Hard Veggies First – Add the carrots and broccoli, stirring for 2-3 minutes to soften them slightly.

  3. Add the Softer Veggies – Toss in the red bell pepper, zucchini, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry everything for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

  1. Mix It Up – In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water.

  2. Pour Into the Pan – Add the sauce to the stir-fried veggies and stir well. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

  1. Add the Tofu Back In – Toss the crispy tofu back into the pan and stir everything together so it’s coated in the sauce.

  2. Let It Simmer – Cook for another minute to let the flavors blend.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Pair with Rice or Noodles – Serve the stir fry over warm rice, quinoa, or noodles.

  2. Garnish for Extra Flavor – Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, or crushed peanuts.

  3. Dig In! – Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy tofu, tender veggies, and flavorful sauce!

Pro Tips:

  • Make It Spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle some sriracha for extra heat.

  • Switch Up the Veggies – Use whatever you have on hand—mushrooms, snap peas, bok choy, or even baby corn.

  • Make It Even Crispier – Air-fry or bake the tofu instead of pan-frying for an extra crunch.

  • Double the Sauce – If you love extra sauce, just double the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Stir Fry:

This Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu is quick, easy, and super satisfying. It’s a great way to pack in lots of veggies, and the crispy tofu soaks up all the delicious sauce. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this meal never disappoints.

So next time you need a fast, healthy meal, give this stir fry a try. You’ll be hooked!

Enjoy your Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu! 😊👇💖