Stir-Fried Tofu with Vegetables in Spicy Garlic Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Firm tofu stir-fried with crunchy mixed vegetables in a vibrant spicy garlic sauce for a satisfying vegetarian meal. This asian-inspired vegan ready in about 25 minutes blends vegetable oil, minced garlic, broccoli florets 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 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 Asian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry a 14 oz block of firm tofu and cut into 1-inch cubes. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add tofu cubes and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the same skillet and add 6 cloves minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 medium sliced red bell pepper, and 1/2 cup julienned carrots. Stir-fry vegetables for 4-5 minutes until crisp-tender.
  4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sriracha, 1 tsp brown sugar, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and vegetables.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Vegetables in Spicy Garlic Sauce 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 Vegetables in Spicy Garlic 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 Vegetables in Spicy Garlic 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 Vegetables in Spicy Garlic Sauce 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.

What goes well with Stir-Fried Tofu with Vegetables in Spicy Garlic 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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