Stir-Fried Tofu with Spicy Szechuan Sauce and Green Beans

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

Crisp-tender green beans and golden cubes of tofu tossed in a bold, spicy Szechuan sauce that delivers a perfect balance of heat and umami. This chinese-inspired vegan (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends cornstarch, vegetable oil, trimmed and halved green beans 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 Chinese cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 14 oz pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp on all sides. Remove tofu from skillet and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil and stir-fry 12 oz trimmed and halved green beans for 5 minutes until bright and slightly tender.
  4. Step 4: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced ginger to the skillet, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 1 tsp toasted and ground Szechuan peppercorns, 1 tbsp chili paste, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Cook for 2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the green beans.
  6. Step 6: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet, toss gently to combine with sauce and green beans. Cook for 1 more minute to heat through.
  7. Step 7: Garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving over steamed rice or noodles.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Spicy Szechuan Sauce and Green Beans 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 Szechuan Sauce and Green Beans?

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 Szechuan Sauce and Green Beans?

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 Szechuan Sauce and Green Beans 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 Szechuan Sauce and Green Beans 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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