Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Bell Pepper in Spicy Soy Sauce
A vibrant vegetarian stir-fry featuring crisp bell peppers and golden tofu cubes coated in a flavorful spicy soy sauce, perfect for a quick, nourishing meal. This chinese-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu, minced garlic cloves, soy sauce 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 220 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
- 400 g, cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
- 1 medium, sliced into thin strips red bell pepper
- 1 medium, sliced into thin strips green bell pepper
- 4 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 stalks, sliced thinly scallions
- 1 tsp, dissolved in 2 tbsp water cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 400 g firm tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning gently until golden brown on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp sesame oil and 4 minced garlic cloves; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Add 1 medium sliced red bell pepper and 1 medium sliced green bell pepper to the skillet, stir-frying for 4-5 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Step 4: Return the tofu to the skillet and pour in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper; stir gently to combine.
- Step 5: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water) and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and vegetables.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 sliced scallions before serving immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Bell Pepper in Spicy Soy 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 with Garlic and Bell Pepper in Spicy Soy 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 Garlic and Bell Pepper in Spicy Soy 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 Garlic and Bell Pepper in Spicy Soy 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 with Garlic and Bell Pepper in Spicy Soy Sauce vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
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