Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Sesame-Ginger Sauce

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

Crisp tofu cubes stir-fried with colorful vegetables and coated in a bold sesame-ginger sauce for a satisfying vegan meal. This korean-inspired vegan ready in about 30 minutes blends sesame oil, broccoli florets, large, julienned carrot into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. 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 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz of pressed, cubed extra firm tofu and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, then add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 sliced red bell pepper, 2 cups broccoli florets, and 1 julienned carrot. Stir-fry vegetables for 5-6 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet, pour the sauce over, and toss everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the tofu and vegetables.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Sesame-Ginger Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Sesame-Ginger Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Spicy Korean-Inspired Tofu Stir Fry with Sesame-Ginger Sauce?

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 Sesame-Ginger Sauce 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 Sesame-Ginger Sauce vegan?

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

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