Go-To Tofu Stir Fry

This go-to tofu stir fry is a delicious and healthy plant-based dinner option that’s packed with flavor and texture. With crispy tofu, fresh vegetables, and a savory stir fry sauce, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tofu stir fry is quick to prepare, nutritious, and incredibly customizable. The flavorful sauce ties everything together, and you can swap in your favorite vegetables depending on what you have on hand. It’s a satisfying meal that works equally well for busy weeknights or meal prep.aGo-To Tofu Stir Fry

Ingredients

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

For the stir fry sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• 6 tablespoons water

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 tablespoon yellow or white miso paste

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

For the tofu stir fry:

• 1 1/2 pounds fresh broccoli, stem on (about 3 large heads or 6 heaping cups florets)

• 1 red bell pepper (or half red and half orange)

• 4 ounces shiitake mushrooms (optional)

• 2 green onions

• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

• 14 ounces firm or extra firm tofu

• 3 tablespoons sesame oil, divided

• Kosher salt

• Sesame seeds

Directions

1. If serving with rice, start cooking it first.

2. Whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Set aside.

3. Chop the broccoli into florets, slice the bell pepper, slice shiitake mushrooms if using, thinly slice the green onions, and grate the ginger.

4. Cut the tofu into 1-inch bite-sized squares and pat dry with a towel.

5. Heat 2 tablespoons sesame oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add tofu and a few pinches of kosher salt. Cook 5–6 minutes until golden on the bottom, then flip and cook another 5–6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon sesame oil to the pan. Stir fry the broccoli, pepper, and mushrooms with a pinch of salt for 6–7 minutes, until starting to brown. Add 1 tablespoon water in the last minute to steam.

7. Reduce heat to low. Add green onion and ginger, cooking 1 minute.

8. Turn off the heat. Return tofu to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir until it thickens.

9. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Swap broccoli for snap peas, carrots, or zucchini.

• Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

• Add extra protein with edamame or tempeh.

• Spice it up with chili flakes or sriracha in the sauce.

• Replace miso with peanut butter for a different flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving too long, as the tofu can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just add them directly to the skillet and cook until heated through.

How do I keep the tofu crispy?

Pat the tofu dry before cooking and avoid overcrowding the pan. Cooking in batches helps maintain crispiness.

What type of tofu works best?

Firm or extra firm tofu is best, as it holds its shape well during stir frying.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be mixed up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Do I need to press the tofu?

Pressing is recommended if your tofu contains a lot of water, but patting dry with a towel is often enough for this recipe.

Can I make this dish oil-free?

Yes, you can sauté vegetables in a small amount of water or broth and bake or air fry the tofu instead of pan frying.

What can I serve this stir fry with?

It pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or rice noodles.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook the tofu and vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but it can be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensuring miso is gluten-free.

Can I freeze tofu stir fry?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. The tofu may change texture slightly upon thawing.

Conclusion

This go-to tofu stir fry is a simple, wholesome, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its customizable vegetables, hearty tofu, and savory sauce, it’s a recipe that makes eating plant-based both satisfying and easy.

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