Smoked Paprika Tofu and Veggie Stir Fry

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-16 · Updated 2026-05-16

Firm tofu cubes stir-fried with colorful vegetables and smoked paprika for a smoky, flavorful vegan dish. This asian-inspired vegan (gluten free option) ready in about 35 minutes pairs cornstarch, olive oil, broccoli florets for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 medium carrots, julienned
• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Step 1: Toss 14 ounces extra-firm tofu cubes with 2 tablespoons cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the tofu cubes. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté 1 medium sliced yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 sliced red bell pepper, 2 cups broccoli florets, and 2 julienned medium carrots for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle 2 teaspoons smoked paprika and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes over the vegetables and stir to coat.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar. Pour this sauce into the skillet and stir well to combine.
6. Step 6: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through and the sauce slightly thickens.
7. Step 7: Garnish with 2 chopped green onions and 1 tablespoon sesame seeds before serving.