Pan-Fried Tofu Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce

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

Golden pan-fried tofu cubes tossed in a vibrant sesame ginger sauce with crisp vegetables, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. This asian-inspired vegan ready in about 30 minutes blends extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, cornstarch, vegetable oil 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 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian cuisine 320 cal/serving
Build a week of meals around this recipe → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 14 oz pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu in 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Step 2: Add tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 julienned large carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1 tbsp honey.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet, pour the sauce over, and toss everything for 2 minutes until heated through and coated. Garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Fried Tofu Stir-Fry with Sesame 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 Pan-Fried Tofu Stir-Fry with Sesame 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 Pan-Fried Tofu Stir-Fry with Sesame 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 Pan-Fried Tofu Stir-Fry with Sesame 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 Pan-Fried Tofu Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce vegan?

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

Related recipes