Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Chili Sauce and Bok Choy

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crisp stir-fried tofu tossed in a savory garlic-chili sauce paired with tender bok choy for a vibrant, plant-based Asian entrée. This asian fusion-inspired vegan (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends vegetable oil, minced garlic cloves, small, finely sliced fresh red chili 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 290 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 Fusion cuisine 290 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crisp on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Sauté 5 minced garlic cloves and 1 small finely sliced fresh red chili for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar. Add 3 halved baby bok choy heads and cook for 3-4 minutes, tossing to coat, until bok choy leaves are tender but stalks remain crisp.
  4. Step 4: Return tofu to skillet, gently toss everything together for 2 minutes to blend flavors. Sprinkle with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp sesame seeds before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Chili Sauce and Bok Choy 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-Chili Sauce and Bok Choy?

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-Chili Sauce and Bok Choy?

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-Chili Sauce and Bok Choy 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-Chili Sauce and Bok Choy 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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