Stir-Fried Tofu and Vegetables with Homemade Stir-Fry Sauce
A vibrant and protein-packed stir-fry featuring pan-fried tofu and crisp vegetables in a savory-sweet sauce, ready in 20 minutes. This asian-inspired asian (low carb) ready in about 30 minutes blends divided vegetable oil, medium, thinly sliced bell pepper, florets broccoli 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 350 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, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
- 2 tbsp, divided vegetable oil
- 1 medium, thinly sliced bell pepper
- 1 medium, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds zucchini
- 2 cups, florets broccoli
- 3 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 tbsp, minced ginger
- 1/4 cup, low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup, sliced green onions
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the 14 oz pressed and cubed tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Transfer the tofu to a plate and set aside.
- Step 3: Add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Add 3 cloves garlic (minced) and 1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced) and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add the 1 medium bell pepper (thinly sliced), 1 medium zucchini (sliced into 1/4-inch rounds), and 2 cups broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Step 5: Return the cooked tofu to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu and vegetables, stirring to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
- Step 6: Garnish with 1/4 cup green onions (sliced) and serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu and Vegetables with Homemade Stir-Fry 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 Vegetables with Homemade Stir-Fry 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 Vegetables with Homemade Stir-Fry 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 Vegetables with Homemade Stir-Fry 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 Vegetables with Homemade Stir-Fry Sauce low carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Quick to prep and the results are amazing. A real keeper.
- ★★★★★
Made exactly as written. Wouldn't change a thing.
- ★★★★☆
Good flavors but the sauce was a bit thin. I'd reduce it longer.