Infinite Element Stir-Fry with Fire-Spiced Tofu

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-28 · Updated 2026-07-28

A vibrant vegan stir-fry inspired by elemental crafting, combining tofu, colorful vegetables, and a smoky fire-spiced sauce for a playful and nourishing meal. This asian fusion-inspired vegan ready in about 35 minutes pairs extra firm tofu, soy sauce, smoked paprika for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz extra firm tofu
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 large, sliced into strips red bell pepper
• 1 medium, sliced into half-moons zucchini
• 1 large, julienned carrot
• 1/2 cup, sliced water chestnuts
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 stalks, chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 cups, warm cooked jasmine rice

Instructions

1. Step 1: Press 14 oz extra firm tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess water, then cut into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, combine 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp ground cumin; toss tofu cubes in this mixture to coat evenly.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and sauté for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the edges are golden and slightly crispy.
3. Step 3: Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add 1 large sliced red bell pepper, 1 medium sliced zucchini, 1 large julienned carrot, and 1/2 cup sliced water chestnuts. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle 2 chopped green onions and 1 tbsp sesame seeds over the stir-fry, tossing to combine. Serve immediately over 2 cups warm cooked jasmine rice.