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

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

Firm tofu stir-fried with aromatic garlic and ginger, coated in a spicy soy-based sauce perfect for a quick, flavorful vegetarian meal. This asian-inspired vegan (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends cornstarch, vegetable oil, minced garlic cloves 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: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Press and drain a 14 oz block of firm tofu, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss the tofu cubes gently with 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully until all sides are golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Lower heat to medium, add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Step 4: Add 1 tsp red chili flakes, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Step 5: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
  6. Step 6: Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

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