Vegan Tofu Stir Fry Recipe: A Healthy, Colorful,

Vegan Tofu Stir Fry Recipe – If you’re looking for a vibrant, nutritious, and easy-to-make plant-based meal, the Vegan Tofu Stir Fry Recipe is the perfect choice. Bursting with color and loaded with fresh vegetables, this dish combines the protein power of tofu with a rich, flavorful sauce made from soy, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness.

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Stir-fries are a staple of Asian-inspired cuisine — quick to cook, endlessly versatile, and ideal for using up whatever vegetables you have on hand

Recipe Details

• Cuisine: Asian / Vegan / Fusion

• Course: Main Course / Dinner

• Servings: 4

• Calories: ~290 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Resting (Pressing Tofu) Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Equipment Needed

• Large non-stick skillet or wok

• Mixing bowls

• Tofu press or heavy pan (for pressing tofu)

• Sharp knife and cutting board

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Whisk (for sauce)

Ingredients

For the Tofu Stir Fry

• 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for coating)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable oil, for frying)

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced

• ½ cup snap peas or green beans

• 2 green onions, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Stir Fry Sauce

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• ½ cup vegetable broth or water

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)

• Optional: ½ teaspoon chili flakes or sriracha for heat

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Press the Tofu

1. Drain the tofu and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

2. Place a heavy pan or tofu press on top and let it sit for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.

3. Once pressed, cut tofu into 1-inch cubes.

💡 Tip: Pressing tofu helps it crisp up beautifully when cooked.

Step 2: Marinate and Coat the Tofu

4. In a bowl, mix tofu cubes with:

   • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

   • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

5. Toss gently to coat evenly.

6. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon cornstarch and toss again until all pieces are lightly coated.

This creates a golden, crispy crust when cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Tofu

7. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

8. Add tofu cubes in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).

9. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crisp.

10. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce

11. In a small bowl, whisk together:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• ½ cup vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

12. Mix until smooth and set aside.

💡 Tip: Adjust the flavor to your liking — add more vinegar for tanginess or syrup for sweetness.

Step 5: Stir Fry the Vegetables

13. In the same pan, add ½ tablespoon sesame oil (if needed).

14. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

15. Add broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas.

16. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes, just until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

17. Lower the heat to medium.

18. Return the cooked tofu to the pan.

19. Pour in the prepared stir-fry sauce and toss to coat everything evenly.

20. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu and veggies.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

21. Remove from heat.

22. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.

23. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Tofu Stir Fry

Use Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu: Soft tofu will break apart easily.
Don’t Skip Pressing: Removing water is key to a crispy texture.
Cook Tofu First: Fry separately before combining to prevent sogginess.
High Heat is Best: Keeps vegetables crisp and vibrant.
Toss Sauce at the End: Helps coat everything evenly without overcooking veggies.

Conclusion

The Vegan Tofu Stir Fry Recipe is a delicious blend of crisp vegetables, golden tofu, and a savory-sweet sauce that brings everything together beautifully. It’s quick to prepare, full of plant-based protein, and packed with nutrients that fuel your body while delighting your taste buds.