Stir-Fried Tofu with Authentic Sichuan Peppercorn and Chili Sauce

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

Bold and spicy stir-fried tofu infused with the numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns and fragrant chili sauce for a truly authentic flavor. This chinese-inspired vegetarian ready in about 25 minutes blends cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu, vegetable oil, Sichuan peppercorns 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 Chinese cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns and 6 broken dried red chilies, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
  2. Step 2: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced ginger, stir-fry for 1 minute until aromatic.
  3. Step 3: Add 400 g firm tofu cubes and gently stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until edges start to brown.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Chinese black vinegar, and 1 tsp sugar, cooking for 2 minutes to let the tofu absorb the sauce.
  5. Step 5: Pour in cornstarch slurry made from 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu evenly.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 chopped green onions before serving hot.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Authentic Sichuan Peppercorn and Chili 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 Stir-Fried Tofu with Authentic Sichuan Peppercorn and Chili 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 with Authentic Sichuan Peppercorn and Chili 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 with Authentic Sichuan Peppercorn and Chili 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.

What goes well with Stir-Fried Tofu with Authentic Sichuan Peppercorn and Chili Sauce?

Chinese vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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