Stir-Fried Tofu and Mixed Vegetables with Sesame-Ginger Sauce
Crisp tofu cubes stir-fried with colorful vegetables in a fragrant sesame-ginger soy sauce, perfect for a quick vegan dinner. This asian fusion-inspired stir fry (vegan, gluten free option) ready in about 30 minutes blends sesame oil, minced garlic cloves, grated fresh ginger 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 4, 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.
Ingredients
- 14 oz block, pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp, grated fresh ginger
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium, sliced red bell pepper
- 1 large, julienned carrot
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2, thinly sliced green onions
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add 2 cups broccoli florets, 1 sliced medium red bell pepper, and 1 julienned large carrot. Stir-fry for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Step 4: Return tofu to the skillet and pour over 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp maple syrup. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats the tofu and vegetables.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced green onions before serving over rice or noodles.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu and Mixed Vegetables 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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Mixed Vegetables 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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Mixed Vegetables 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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Mixed Vegetables with Sesame-Ginger Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Mixed Vegetables with Sesame-Ginger Sauce vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan, gluten free option based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.