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

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

Firm tofu cubes stir-fried with garlic and fresh chilies, glazed in a sweet and savory soy sauce for a quick and satisfying vegetarian dish. This asian-inspired vegan ready in about 25 minutes blends firm tofu, drained and cubed, garlic cloves, thinly sliced, small red bird’s eye chilies, sliced 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 Asian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
  2. Step 2: Add 14 ounces firm tofu cubed into 1-inch pieces and fry for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and slightly crisp.
  3. Step 3: Push tofu to the side of the pan and add 5 thinly sliced garlic cloves and 2 sliced red bird’s eye chilies. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
  4. Step 4: Stir tofu back into the garlic and chili, then add 3 tablespoons dark soy sauce, 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Toss everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu with a glossy sheen.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat, sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped green onions and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds on top before serving with steamed rice or noodles.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Chili in Sweet Soy 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 Sweet 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 Chili in Sweet 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 Chili in Sweet Soy 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 Sweet Soy 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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