Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Chili in Spicy Black Bean Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Firm tofu cubes stir-fried with aromatic garlic and spicy chili, tossed in a rich black bean sauce for a savory, satisfying vegetarian dish. This chinese-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 25 minutes blends vegetable oil, minced garlic, small, thinly sliced fresh red chili 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

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and slightly crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Lower heat to medium, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 small thinly sliced fresh red chili to the wok, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 tbsp rinsed and mashed fermented black beans, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp brown sugar. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Step 4: Pour in 1/4 cup water and bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch dissolved in 1 tbsp water). Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the spoon.
  5. Step 5: Return the tofu to the wok and toss gently with 2 sliced green onions to coat tofu evenly in sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through and serve immediately with steamed rice.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Chili in Spicy Black Bean 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 Garlic and Chili in Spicy Black Bean 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 Chili in Spicy Black Bean 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 Chili in Spicy Black Bean 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.

Is Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Chili in Spicy Black Bean Sauce vegan?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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