Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Spring Onion in Light Soy Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender tofu cubes stir-fried with fragrant garlic and fresh spring onions, finished with a light soy sauce glaze for a healthy vegetarian option. This chinese-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian, gluten free option) ready in about 25 minutes blends vegetable oil, thinly sliced garlic cloves, light soy sauce 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 200 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 200 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and sauté for 3-4 minutes on each side until all sides are golden and slightly crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and stir-fry over medium heat for 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned.
  3. Step 3: Add 3 stalks sliced spring onions and stir-fry for 1 minute until they soften slightly.
  4. Step 4: Return the tofu to the skillet and pour in 2 tbsp light soy sauce, 2 tbsp water, 1/2 tsp sugar, and 1/4 tsp white pepper. Toss gently to coat all tofu pieces and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu.
  5. Step 5: Drizzle 1 tsp sesame oil over the tofu and spring onions, toss once more, then remove from heat and serve warm.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Spring Onion in Light 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 Spring Onion in Light 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 Spring Onion in Light 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 Spring Onion in Light 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 Spring Onion in Light Soy Sauce vegetarian?

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

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