Crisp Tofu Stir-Fry with Garlic Ginger Sauce
A vibrant stir-fry featuring golden tofu cubes tossed in a savory garlic ginger sauce with crisp vegetables. This asian-inspired vegan (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends vegetable oil, broccoli florets, large, julienned carrot 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 280 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.
Ingredients
- 14 oz block, drained and cubed extra firm tofu
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium, sliced into thin strips red bell pepper
- 1 large, julienned carrot
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp, minced fresh ginger
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mixed with 2 tbsp water cornstarch
- 2 stalks, sliced for garnish scallions
Instructions
- Step 1: Press and drain 14 oz extra firm tofu, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and fry tofu cubes for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil, then toss in 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 julienned carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Step 3: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger to vegetables and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4: Stir in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar. Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and pour in to thicken sauce, cooking for 1-2 minutes until sauce coats vegetables.
- Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet and toss gently to combine and warm through. Garnish with 2 sliced scallions before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Crisp Tofu Stir-Fry with Garlic Ginger 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 Crisp Tofu Stir-Fry with Garlic Ginger 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 Crisp Tofu Stir-Fry with Garlic Ginger 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 Crisp Tofu Stir-Fry with Garlic Ginger 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 Crisp Tofu Stir-Fry with Garlic Ginger 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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