Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Pepper and Garlic Sauce

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

A vibrant and fast stir-fry featuring crispy tofu cubes and colorful bell peppers coated in a savory garlic sauce. This asian fusion-inspired vegan (vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes blends minced garlic cloves, soy sauce, rice vinegar 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 280 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: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian Fusion cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 14 oz pressed and cubed firm tofu with 1 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 sliced green bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 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 sesame oil, 1 tsp brown sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce over. Stir well and cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and vegetables.
  6. Step 6: Garnish with 2 chopped scallions before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Pepper and Garlic Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Pepper and Garlic 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Pepper and Garlic 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Pepper and Garlic 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Bell Pepper and Garlic Sauce 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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