Sichuan-Style Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Peanuts

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-25 · Updated 2026-04-25

Firm tofu stir-fried with crunchy peanuts and bold Sichuan spices for a fiery and satisfying vegetarian dish. This chinese-inspired street food (vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes pairs drained and cubed firm tofu, peanut oil, whole Sichuan peppercorns for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz, drained and cubed firm tofu
• 3 tbsp peanut oil
• 1 tsp whole Sichuan peppercorns
• 6 whole dried red chilies
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp minced ginger
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/3 cup roasted peanuts
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1 tsp dissolved in 2 tbsp water cornstarch

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp peanut oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tsp whole Sichuan peppercorns and 6 whole dried red chilies. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant and peppercorns darken but do not burn.
2. Step 2: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 2 tbsp minced ginger to the wok. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until aromatic.
3. Step 3: Add 14 oz cubed firm tofu and 1/3 cup roasted peanuts. Gently toss and cook for 4-5 minutes until tofu edges are lightly golden.
4. Step 4: Stir in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar. Mix thoroughly and cook for 1 minute.
5. Step 5: Pour in 1 tsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water and stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat, sprinkle 1/4 cup sliced green onions on top, and drizzle with remaining 1 tbsp peanut oil for extra gloss and flavor. Serve hot.