Stir-Fried Authentic Vietnamese Lemongrass Tofu

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

How this recipe was made — this recipe was drafted by AislePrompt's AI-assisted pipeline from technique templates and USDA-sourced nutrition data, and published by AislePrompt Editorial — see how AislePrompt recipes are drafted and published.

A fragrant and vibrant stir-fry combining crispy tofu cubes with bright lemongrass, garlic, and chili for a truly authentic Vietnamese flavor. This Vietnamese-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 25 minutes, pairs firm tofu, lemongrass stalks, garlic cloves 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Vietnamese cuisine 280 cal/serving

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Ingredients

14 oz, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
2, finely minced lemongrass stalks
4, minced garlic cloves
1 small, thinly sliced red chili
2 tbsp soy sauce
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp brown sugar
2, sliced green onions
1 tbsp fresh lime juice

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Instructions

Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and fry them for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add 2 finely minced lemongrass stalks, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 1 thinly sliced red chili. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.
Step 3: Return the fried tofu to the skillet, then add 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp brown sugar. Toss everything to coat the tofu evenly, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the tofu.
Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp fresh lime juice for brightness.
Step 5: Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or as a flavorful vegetarian main dish.