Stir-Fried Tofu with Spicy Black Bean Sauce and Bell Peppers

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

Firm tofu stir-fried with colorful bell peppers and a savory spicy black bean sauce that delivers bold umami and heat in every bite. This chinese-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 25 minutes blends minced garlic cloves, grated ginger, 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 270 calories and feeds 4, 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 4 Chinese cuisine 270 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and slightly crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same wok, add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp grated ginger, and 1 tbsp chopped fermented black beans. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 sliced red bell pepper and 1 sliced green bell pepper to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until peppers begin to soften but remain crisp.
  4. Step 4: Return tofu to the wok and pour in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
  5. Step 5: Pour in 1 tsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and vegetables.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat, sprinkle with 2 sliced scallions, and serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Spicy Black Bean Sauce and Bell Peppers 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 Spicy Black Bean Sauce and Bell Peppers?

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 Spicy Black Bean Sauce and Bell Peppers?

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 Spicy Black Bean Sauce and Bell Peppers for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Spicy Black Bean Sauce and Bell Peppers 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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