Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Basil
This quick stir-fry features crispy tofu cubes tossed with fragrant garlic and fresh basil leaves for an easy, flavorful vegan main. This Asian Fusion-inspired vegan recipe (gluten free option), ready in about 20 minutes, pairs firm tofu, garlic cloves, fresh basil leaves for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a quick salad. 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 block, pressed and cubed firm tofu
- 4 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red chili flakes
- 2, sliced green onions
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Equipment for this recipe
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Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed firm tofu, cooking for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crispy.
- Step 2: Push the tofu to one side and add 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Stir in 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes if using. Toss the tofu to coat evenly and cook for another 1 minute.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and fold in 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves and 2 sliced green onions, tossing until the basil wilts. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.






