Spicy Stir-Fried Tofu with Cashew and Chili Garlic Sauce
Firm tofu cubes stir-fried with crunchy cashews and a spicy chili garlic sauce for a bold vegetarian Asian dish. This Asian-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 25 minutes, pairs firm tofu, cornstarch, vegetable oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 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, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup cashew nuts
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 stalks, sliced diagonally scallions
- 1/4 cup water
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Equipment for this recipe
Tools this recipe's steps call for, with a link to each on Amazon.
Instructions
- Step 1: Toss 14 oz firm tofu cubes with 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same wok, add 1/2 cup cashew nuts and toast for 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Step 4: Lower heat to medium, add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp red chili flakes to the oil remaining in the pan, sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Step 5: Stir in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 6: Return tofu and cashews to the wok, toss gently to coat with the sauce.
- Step 7: Add 2 sliced scallions and stir-fry for another minute before serving hot.







