Hunan-Style Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Chili

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-08-03 · Updated 2026-08-03

How this recipe was made — this recipe was drafted by AislePrompt's AI-assisted pipeline from technique templates and USDA-sourced nutrition data, and published by AislePrompt Editorial — see how AislePrompt recipes are drafted and published.

Firm tofu stir-fried with bold garlic and chili flavors, a satisfying vegetarian dish inspired by Hunan cuisine. This Chinese vegetarian recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs firm tofu, garlic cloves, and fresh red chili for a weeknight-friendly dinner. 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 "Build a week of meals around this recipe" 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 Chinese cuisine 280 cal/serving

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Ingredients

14 oz block firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
5 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium fresh red chili, finely chopped
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water
3 tbsp vegetable oil
2 stalks scallions, sliced diagonally

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Instructions

Step 1: Press 14 oz firm tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until all sides are golden and crispy; remove tofu and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add 5 minced garlic cloves and 2 finely chopped fresh red chilies, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 2 tbsp water in a small bowl, then pour into the skillet.
Step 5: Return the tofu to the skillet and toss gently for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu evenly.
Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced scallions before serving with steamed rice or noodles.