Stir-Fried Tofu with Ginger, Scallions, and Black Bean Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Firm tofu stir-fried with aromatic ginger, scallions, and a savory fermented black bean sauce for a quick vegetarian entrée. This chinese-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes blends minced fresh ginger, sliced into 2-inch pieces scallions, 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 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: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Chinese cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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 cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until bottoms are golden and crispy.
  2. Step 2: Flip tofu cubes carefully and cook another 3 minutes until all sides are golden. Remove tofu from pan and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same pan, add 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tbsp rinsed and roughly chopped fermented black beans. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Add 3 sliced scallions and 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 30 seconds, then return the tofu to the pan.
  5. Step 5: Pour in 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp sesame oil, stirring to coat everything evenly.
  6. Step 6: Add the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu and vegetables.
  7. Step 7: Remove from heat and serve immediately with steamed rice.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Ginger, Scallions, and Black Bean 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 Ginger, Scallions, and Black Bean 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 Ginger, Scallions, and Black Bean 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 Ginger, Scallions, and Black Bean 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 Ginger, Scallions, and Black Bean 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.

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