Charred Mushroom and Tofu Stir Fry with Miso-Sesame Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

An umami-packed stir fry combining charred mushrooms and firm tofu tossed in a savory miso-sesame sauce for a quick, nutritious meal. This japanese-inspired stir fry (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends sliced shiitake mushrooms, medium, julienned green bell pepper, stalks, chopped scallions into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Japanese cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over high heat until shimmering, then add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until golden and slightly charred on one side; flip and char the other side for 3 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Remove tofu and add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, then add 8 oz sliced shiitake mushrooms and 1 medium julienned green bell pepper, stir-frying for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
  3. Step 3: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp white miso paste, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated ginger until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Return tofu to the skillet, pour the miso-sesame sauce over the tofu and vegetables, and toss for 2 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat, sprinkle with 3 chopped scallions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving over steamed rice or noodles.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Charred Mushroom and Tofu Stir Fry with Miso-Sesame Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Charred Mushroom and Tofu Stir Fry with Miso-Sesame Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Charred Mushroom and Tofu Stir Fry with Miso-Sesame Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Charred Mushroom and Tofu Stir Fry with Miso-Sesame Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Charred Mushroom and Tofu Stir Fry with Miso-Sesame Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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