Stir-Fried Tofu with Ginger and Chinese Black Bean Sauce

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-29 · Updated 2026-07-29

Firm tofu stir-fried with aromatic ginger, garlic, and a savory regional-style fermented black bean sauce, creating a bold and satisfying vegetarian entrée. This Chinese-inspired vegetarian recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs firm tofu, vegetable oil, fresh ginger for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp, finely julienned fresh ginger
• 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp, rinsed and roughly chopped fermented black beans
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 stalks, sliced diagonally scallions
• 1/4 tsp, optional red chili flakes
• 2 tbsp water

Woks that get real sear at home → Best Woks for 2026: Carbon Steel, Nonstick & Flat-Bottom Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and fry for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add 2 tbsp finely julienned fresh ginger and 3 minced garlic cloves, stir-frying for 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
3. Step 3: Add 2 tbsp rinsed and roughly chopped fermented black beans, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 2 tbsp water. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Return the fried tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the black bean sauce. Stir in 2 sliced scallions and 1/4 tsp red chili flakes if using. Cook for 1 more minute to heat through.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.