Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Basil

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

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 (vegan, gluten free option) ready in about 20 minutes pairs block, pressed and cubed firm tofu, minced 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 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 3 Asian Fusion cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Basil take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Basil?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep minced garlic cloves from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Basil?

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 Garlic and Basil 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 Garlic and Basil vegan?

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

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