Perilla Leaf Sauce Tofu Stir-Fry with Crisp Vegetables

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

Silky tofu bathed in aromatic perilla leaf sauce, paired with crunchy bell peppers and broccoli for a vibrant vegetarian meal. This asian-inspired vegetarian (vegan) ready in about 30 minutes blends Firm tofu, Perilla leaf sauce, Soy sauce 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 2, 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.

★ 4.2 (13 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 2 Asian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp perilla leaf sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated ginger until smooth.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed tofu, and cook 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
  3. Step 3: Add 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers and 1 cup broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender and vibrant green.
  4. Step 4: Pour the perilla sauce mixture over the vegetables and tofu. Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the skillet. Cook 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats everything evenly, then sprinkle with 1 tsp sesame seeds.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Perilla Leaf Sauce Tofu Stir-Fry with Crisp Vegetables 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 Perilla Leaf Sauce Tofu Stir-Fry with Crisp Vegetables?

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 Perilla Leaf Sauce Tofu Stir-Fry with Crisp 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 Perilla Leaf Sauce Tofu Stir-Fry with Crisp Vegetables for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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 Perilla Leaf Sauce Tofu Stir-Fry with Crisp Vegetables 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.

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