Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Garlic and Chili

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-09 · Updated 2026-05-09

Firm tofu stir-fried with bold garlic and chili flavors, vegetables, and a savory soy-based sauce for a satisfying vegan entrée. This Korean-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs extra-firm tofu, cornstarch, vegetable oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 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 block, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes extra-firm tofu
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4, minced garlic cloves
• 1 small, thinly sliced fresh red chili
• 1 medium, sliced into strips red bell pepper
• 3 stalks, sliced green onions
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp, for garnish toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Press 14 oz extra-firm tofu block to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss tofu cubes with 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully, until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 thinly sliced fresh red chili, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
4. Step 4: Add 1 sliced red bell pepper and 3 sliced green onions, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1 tbsp honey. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Step 6: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss gently for 1 minute until tofu is coated and warmed through.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds over the dish before serving hot with steamed rice or noodles.