Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Chili in Spicy Soy Sauce

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-03 · Updated 2026-05-03

Firm tofu cubes stir-fried with garlic and fresh red chilies in a bold soy sauce that delivers heat and umami in every bite. This Chinese-inspired St. Patrick’s Day recipe, ready in about 22 minutes, pairs firm tofu, vegetable oil, garlic cloves for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 5 cloves, finely minced garlic cloves
• 2, thinly sliced fresh red chili
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2, chopped scallions
• 1 tsp sesame oil

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Press and drain 14 oz firm tofu, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, then add tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crisp.
2. Step 2: Add 5 minced garlic cloves and 2 thinly sliced fresh red chilies to the skillet, stir-frying for 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
3. Step 3: Mix together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp sugar in a small bowl, then pour over tofu. Stir to coat and cook for another 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 2 chopped scallions and 1 tsp sesame oil. Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice.