Stir-Fried Tofu with Lemongrass and Black Pepper Sauce

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

A vibrant vegan stir-fry featuring firm tofu with fragrant lemongrass and a bold black pepper sauce. This vietnamese-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 30 minutes blends drained and cubed firm tofu, finely minced lemongrass stalks, minced garlic cloves 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: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Vietnamese cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Press 14 oz firm tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; add tofu cubes and fry for 4-5 minutes per side until all sides are golden and slightly crispy, then remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 2 finely minced lemongrass stalks and 3 minced garlic cloves; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/4 cup water; bring to a simmer.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the sauce; cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the tofu.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 1/4 cup sliced green onions and 1/4 tsp red chili flakes if desired before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Lemongrass and Black Pepper 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 Lemongrass and Black Pepper 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 Lemongrass and Black Pepper 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 Lemongrass and Black Pepper 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 Lemongrass and Black Pepper Sauce 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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