Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Sauce and Snap Peas

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant vegan stir-fry featuring crispy tofu cubes tossed with fresh snap peas in a savory garlic-sesame sauce. This asian fusion-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 25 minutes blends cornstarch, canola oil, trimmed snap peas 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 320 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 Asian Fusion cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 14 oz extra firm tofu with paper towels and cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss tofu cubes gently with 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crispy.
  3. Step 3: Flip tofu cubes carefully and cook another 3-4 minutes until all sides are crisp and golden. Remove tofu to a plate.
  4. Step 4: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Add 8 oz trimmed snap peas and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
  6. Step 6: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Pour this sauce over snap peas and stir to combine.
  7. Step 7: Return tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the sauce. Cook for 1-2 more minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Step 8: Remove from heat and garnish with 1 tbsp sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced green onions before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Sauce and Snap Peas 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-Sesame Sauce and Snap Peas?

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-Sesame Sauce and Snap Peas?

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-Sesame Sauce and Snap Peas 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-Sesame Sauce and Snap Peas vegan?

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

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