Easy Tofu & Vegetable Stir Fry
Fresh, flavorful, and ready in 30 minutes
If you're looking for a simple meatless meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor, this Easy Tofu & Vegetable Stir Fry is a fantastic place to start. Crispy tofu, vibrant vegetables, and a savory homemade sauce come together in one pan for a meal that's satisfying, nutritious, and surprisingly easy to make.
Many people think cooking with tofu is intimidating, but it's actually one of the easiest proteins to prepare once you know a few simple tricks. This recipe is designed to help beginners feel confident while creating a colorful dish that's just as delicious as their favorite takeout.
Whether you're trying to eat more plant-based meals or simply want an affordable weeknight dinner, this stir fry is one you'll want to keep on repeat.
Why you’ll love this recipe.
Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Completely vegetarian, with an easy vegan option.
One-pan recipe for simple cleanup.
Budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients.
Perfect for beginners, even if you've never cooked tofu before.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.
Great for meal prep, as leftovers reheat well.
A little about Tofu & Vegetable Stir Fry
Stir-frying has been used throughout China for centuries as a fast and efficient cooking method. Tofu, which has been enjoyed in East Asia for over 2,000 years, is a staple ingredient in many Chinese, Japanese, and Korean dishes because of its versatility and ability to absorb flavor.
Today, vegetable stir-fries have become popular around the world thanks to their flexibility. While traditional recipes vary widely by region, this simplified version captures the fresh flavors and quick cooking style that make stir-fries such a favorite for home cooks.
This stir fry is packed with colorful vegetables that stay slightly crisp, while the tofu develops a lightly golden exterior and a tender center. The homemade sauce is savory with a touch of sweetness, coating every bite without being heavy.
Even if you've never enjoyed tofu before, this recipe may surprise you. The tofu absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, making it a satisfying alternative to meat.
Ingredient spotlight.
Firm tofu holds its shape well during cooking and develops a lightly crisp exterior when browned. Avoid using silken tofu for this recipe, as it's too delicate for stir-frying.
Soy sauce creates the savory foundation of the stir-fry sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce allows you to control the seasoning more easily.
A small amount of sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma that's often associated with Asian-inspired cooking. Because it has a strong flavor, a little goes a long way.
Bell peppers add sweetness, crunch, and beautiful color to the finished dish.
Broccoli provides texture and absorbs the sauce exceptionally well while adding extra nutrition.
Easy ingredient swaps.
Vegetables
Mix and match with whatever you have available:
Snap peas
Carrots
Mushrooms
Green beans
Bok choy
Zucchini
Baby corn
Snow peas
Protein
If tofu isn't your favorite, this recipe also works well with:
Chicken breast
Shrimp
Thinly sliced beef
Pork tenderloin
Sauce
No sesame oil?
Simply leave it out. The stir fry will still taste delicious.
No rice vinegar?
Use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar instead.
Make It Gluten-Free
Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
Beginner tips for success.
Why should you pat tofu dry before cooking?
Tofu naturally contains a lot of water. Removing some of that moisture with paper towels helps it brown instead of steam when it hits the hot skillet.
You don't need a special tofu press for this recipe. Simply wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or several paper towels, place a plate on top, and let it sit for about 15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables. The drier the tofu, the better it will brown and absorb the sauce.
What to serve with Tofu & Vegetable Stir Fry.
This stir fry pairs well with a variety of simple sides:
Steamed jasmine rice
Brown rice
Rice noodles
Lo mein noodles
Vegetable fried rice
Miso soup
Chinese Egg Drop Soup (if not keeping it vegetarian)
Asian cucumber salad
Make it a complete meal.
Easy Meatless Family Dinner
Main Dish
Easy Tofu & Vegetable Stir Fry
Side
Steamed Jasmine Rice
Vegetable
Edamame with a pinch of sea salt
Dessert
Fresh mango slices or pineapple
Easy Tofu & Vegetable Stir Fry
This Easy Tofu & Vegetable Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner made with crispy tofu, colorful vegetables, and a savory homemade sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for beginner cooks.
Ingredients
- 14 ounce block firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 red chili, sliced (optional)
- 2 green onions sliced
Instructions
- Drain the tofu and gently pat it dry with paper towels. Cut it into 1 inch cubes.
- Place the tofu in a bowl and sprinkle with the cornstarch. Toss gently until each piece is lightly coated.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the tofu in a single layer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning carefully until most sides are golden brown. Transfer the browned tofu to a plate.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Add the garlic, ginger, and red chili (if using). Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the tofu to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and gently stir everything together.
- Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the tofu and vegetables.
- Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with the sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Firm tofu works best because it holds its shape during cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the tofu. Cooking in a single layer helps it develop the golden crust.
- Cut the vegetables in similar sizes so they cook evenly.
- Replace the red chili slices with a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes if heat is your thing.
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