Spicy Stir-Fried Tofu with Bok Choy and Chili-Garlic Sauce

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

A vibrant vegan stir-fry featuring crispy tofu and tender bok choy tossed in a fiery chili-garlic sauce. This asian-inspired vegan ready in about 25 minutes blends firm tofu, pressed and cubed, vegetable oil, baby bok choy, halved 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 280 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: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 14 oz pressed cubed firm tofu and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Sauté 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 small finely chopped fresh red chili for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
  3. Step 3: Add 3 cups halved baby bok choy and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until leaves are wilted and stalks are tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: Return tofu to the skillet. Stir in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp sesame oil. Toss everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats the tofu and bok choy.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving with steamed rice or noodles.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Spicy Stir-Fried Tofu with Bok Choy and Chili-Garlic Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 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 Stir-Fried Tofu with Bok Choy and Chili-Garlic 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 Stir-Fried Tofu with Bok Choy and Chili-Garlic 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 Stir-Fried Tofu with Bok Choy and Chili-Garlic 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 Stir-Fried Tofu with Bok Choy and Chili-Garlic 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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