Spicy Gemini Stir-Fry with Tofu and Szechuan Peppercorn

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-14 · Updated 2026-07-14

A vibrant stir-fry combining firm tofu, crisp vegetables, and the bold numbing spice of Szechuan peppercorn, evoking Gemini’s dynamic duality. This Chinese-inspired stir-fry recipe (vegetarian, high protein), ready in about 30 minutes, pairs firm tofu, vegetable oil, Szechuan peppercorns for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, 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, pressed and cubed into 1-inch pieces firm tofu
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp whole Szechuan peppercorns
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 1 medium, sliced into thin strips red bell pepper
• 1 cup trimmed snap peas
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 sliced for garnish scallions
• 1 tbsp for garnish toasted sesame seeds

The wok we’d stir-fry this in → Best Woks for 2026: Carbon Steel, Nonstick & Flat-Bottom Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 1 tsp whole Szechuan peppercorns and toast for 1 minute until aromatic.
2. Step 2: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
3. Step 3: Toss in 14 oz cubed firm tofu and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and edges are crispy.
4. Step 4: Add 1 medium sliced red bell pepper and 1 cup snap peas; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Step 5: Stir together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar, then pour over tofu and vegetables. Stir fry for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats everything.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat, garnish with 2 sliced scallions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, then serve hot.