Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce

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

Golden pan-fried tofu tossed in a sweet and spicy chili garlic sauce with crisp vegetables for a satisfying vegan stir-fry. This asian-inspired vegan (gluten free option) ready in about 35 minutes blends cornstarch, vegetable oil, large, thinly sliced red bell pepper 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 320 calories and feeds 4, 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: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Asian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 14 oz pressed and cubed extra firm tofu with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Sauté 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Add 1 large thinly sliced red bell pepper, 1 cup snap peas, and 1 medium julienned carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tsp sriracha, and 1/4 cup water.
  6. Step 6: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything. Toss gently and cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats tofu and vegetables.
  7. Step 7: Garnish with 3 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp sesame seeds before serving over steamed rice or noodles.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 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 Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili Garlic 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 Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili Garlic 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 Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce vegan?

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

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