Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Basil Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crisp cubes of tofu stir-fried with fresh garlic and fragrant Thai basil, coated in a savory-sweet sauce that highlights classic Asian flavors. This thai-inspired vegan (vegetarian) ready in about 35 minutes blends block extra firm tofu, cornstarch, vegetable oil 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: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Thai cuisine 280 cal/serving
Plan a meal with the AI → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Drain and press 14 oz extra firm tofu for 15 minutes, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss tofu cubes gently with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add tofu cubes and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu from wok and set aside on paper towels.
  3. Step 3: Lower heat to medium. Add 4 minced garlic cloves to the hot wok and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the wok and toss gently to coat with sauce.
  6. Step 6: Add 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 1 minute until basil is wilted and tofu is heated through.
  7. Step 7: Remove from heat and serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice.

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 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-Basil 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-Basil 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-Basil 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-Basil 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.

Related recipes