Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner? This Crispy Tofu Stir Fry is the perfect weeknight meal. With crunchy golden tofu, colorful vegetables, and a savory-sweet sauce, it’s both easy to make and customizable to your taste.
🥢 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy outside, soft inside tofu
- Fresh, colorful veggies full of nutrients
- Sauce that balances salty, sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect with rice, quinoa, or noodles
🧾 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu – best for crispiness
- Vegetables – bell peppers, broccoli, carrots (plus snap peas, mushrooms, or bok choy if you like)
- Cornstarch – key for crunchy tofu
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (salty, umami base)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (nutty aroma)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (tangy balance)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Tofu
- Wrap tofu in a clean towel, place a heavy object on top, and press for 15–20 minutes.
- Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss cubes in cornstarch for an even coating.
2. Fry the Tofu
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add tofu in a single layer. Cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add carrots and bell peppers first (firmer veggies).
- After 1 minute, add broccoli. Stir-fry 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp and vibrant.
4. Make the Sauce
- Stir in garlic and ginger for 1 minute.
- Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey/maple syrup. Mix well.
5. Combine Everything
- Return crispy tofu to the skillet.
- Toss gently with veggies and sauce for 2–3 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, or extra soy sauce to taste.
🌟 Tips for Success
- For the crispiest tofu: Don’t skip pressing and always cook on medium-high heat.
- Veggie timing: Add firm vegetables first, softer ones later.
- Flavor variations: Swap soy sauce with teriyaki or hoisin. Add chili flakes, sriracha, or jalapeños for heat.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or soba noodles.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Pair with a light cucumber salad for freshness.
🔄 Variations
- Protein swaps: Use tempeh, seitan, or even soft tofu for a creamier texture.
- Seasonal veggies: Try zucchini in summer, green beans in spring, or root veggies in winter.
- Meal prep: Cook tofu and veggies separately, then combine before serving.
🥡 Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Can freeze up to 1 month (though tofu texture may change).
- Reheating: Best in oven/air fryer (375°F for 10–15 minutes) or skillet with a little oil.
❓ FAQs
Q. How do I make tofu extra crispy?
Press it well, coat in cornstarch, and fry in a single layer without overcrowding.
Q. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store tofu and veggies separately, then reheat and combine before eating.
Q. What can I serve it with?
Rice, quinoa, soba noodles, or even a bed of greens for a lighter meal.
✅ Final Thoughts
This Crispy Tofu Stir Fry is healthy, quick, and endlessly customizable. From the golden crunchy tofu to the colorful stir-fried vegetables and flavorful sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
✨ Try it tonight, save it for later, and don’t forget to share your version!
👉 Pin this recipe on Pinterest and share with friends!
