Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Ginger in Black Bean Sauce

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-29 · Updated 2026-04-29

Firm tofu cubes stir-fried with aromatic garlic, ginger, and fermented black bean sauce for a savory and satisfying vegetarian dish. This Chinese-inspired stir-fry recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 25 minutes, pairs firm tofu, cornstarch, vegetable oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 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, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 5 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 tbsp fermented black bean sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 sliced for garnish scallions
• 1/4 cup water

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Toss 14 oz firm tofu cubes with 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy, then remove from skillet.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 5 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Step 3: Stir in 2 tbsp fermented black bean sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp brown sugar. Add 1/4 cup water and bring to a simmer. Return tofu to the skillet and toss gently for 2-3 minutes until tofu is coated and the sauce thickens. Garnish with 2 sliced scallions before serving.