Dummy-Proof Vegetarian Stir Fry with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A colorful, quick vegetable stir fry with crispy tofu cubes, designed for foolproof cooking and vibrant flavors. This asian-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 35 minutes pairs soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic cloves, minced for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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 3 Asian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Press 14 oz extra firm tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes and toss with 1 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for 1 minute.
  3. Step 3: Add tofu cubes and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy; transfer to a plate.
  4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Add 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 julienned carrot; stir fry for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  6. Step 6: Return tofu to the skillet and pour in 3 tbsp soy sauce mixed with 1/4 cup water; cook for 2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats tofu and vegetables.
  7. Step 7: Remove from heat and sprinkle 2 chopped green onions before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Dummy-Proof Vegetarian Stir Fry with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Dummy-Proof Vegetarian Stir Fry with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep soy sauce from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Dummy-Proof Vegetarian Stir Fry with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables?

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 Dummy-Proof Vegetarian Stir Fry with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables 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 Dummy-Proof Vegetarian Stir Fry with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables 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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