Stir-Fried Tofu with White Pepper and Garlic Sauce
A vibrant stir-fry featuring firm tofu coated in a savory garlic and white pepper sauce, garnished with scallions for a peppery kick. This chinese-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 25 minutes blends vegetable oil, minced garlic cloves, 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 240 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
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 5 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 3 stalks, sliced scallions
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Toss 14 oz firm tofu cubes with 1 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated to help create a crispy exterior.
- Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering; add tofu and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides.
- Step 3: Remove tofu from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 5 minced garlic cloves; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4: Stir in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp white pepper, and 1/4 cup water; bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes until sauce slightly thickens.
- Step 5: Return tofu to skillet, toss gently to coat in sauce, then drizzle 1 tsp sesame oil and sprinkle 3 sliced scallions over the top before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with White Pepper and 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 White Pepper and 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 White Pepper and 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 White Pepper and Garlic 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 White Pepper and Garlic 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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