Stir-Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut Sauce
A vibrant vegetarian dish featuring crispy tofu cubes tossed in a creamy, spicy peanut sauce with crunchy vegetables. This asian-inspired vegan (gluten free option, vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends cornstarch, vegetable oil, medium, thinly sliced red bell pepper 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 350 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.
Ingredients
- 14 oz, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes firm tofu
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium, thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1 large, julienned carrot
- 2 stalks, sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
- 3 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sriracha sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions
- Step 1: Toss 14 oz cubed firm tofu with 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy; remove and set aside.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp sriracha, 1 tsp grated ginger, and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, add sliced 1 red bell pepper and 1 julienned carrot; sauté for 3 minutes until slightly tender but crisp.
- Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the peanut sauce over. Stir-fry everything together for 2 minutes until tofu and vegetables are coated and heated through.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1/4 cup crushed peanuts before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Spicy Peanut 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 Spicy Peanut 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 Spicy Peanut 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 Spicy Peanut 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 Spicy Peanut Sauce gluten free option?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free option, 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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