Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Garlic and Scallions

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

A vibrant, protein-packed stir fry featuring crispy tofu in a spicy garlic sauce, enhanced with fresh scallions and sesame seeds. This Korean-inspired stir-fry recipe (vegan, high protein), ready in about 30 minutes, pairs extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed, sesame oil, garlic cloves, minced 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. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Korean cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz cubed extra firm tofu and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil. Sauté 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated ginger for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 medium thinly sliced red bell pepper and 1 medium julienned carrot; stir fry for 3 minutes until slightly tender.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 2 tbsp gochujang, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp brown sugar. Cook sauce for 2 minutes until thickened and bubbling. Return tofu to skillet, tossing to coat evenly and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat, stir in 1/2 cup sliced scallions, and sprinkle with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Garlic and Scallions take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 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 Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Garlic and Scallions?

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 sesame oil from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Garlic and Scallions?

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 Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Garlic and Scallions 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 Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Garlic and Scallions vegan?

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

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