Stir-Fried Tofu with Ginger Soy Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Firm tofu cubes stir-fried to golden crispness, tossed in a fragrant ginger soy sauce with scallions and sesame. This asian-inspired vegan ready in about 30 minutes blends cornstarch, vegetable oil, grated fresh ginger 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: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Press and drain 14 oz firm tofu block, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss tofu cubes with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until golden on one side. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp brown sugar. Cook sauce for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat with sauce. Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 sliced scallions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Ginger Soy Sauce 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 Ginger Soy 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 Soy 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 Soy 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.

What goes well with Stir-Fried Tofu with Ginger Soy Sauce?

Asian vegan like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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