Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Garlic-Ginger Sauce

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

A vibrant and quick vegetable stir-fry with crispy tofu, bright veggies, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. This asian-inspired vegetarian ready in about 30 minutes blends firm tofu, pressed and cubed, cornstarch, vegetable oil 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 310 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: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Asian cuisine 310 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 14 oz pressed and cubed firm tofu with 2 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 cups broccoli florets, 1 large julienned carrot, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 cup snap peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: Stir together 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/4 cup water in a small bowl. Pour sauce over vegetables and stir to coat.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet, toss gently with vegetables and sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes until heated through and sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Step 6: Garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp sesame seeds before serving over steamed rice or noodles.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Garlic-Ginger 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 Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Garlic-Ginger 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 Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Garlic-Ginger 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 Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Garlic-Ginger 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 Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Garlic-Ginger Sauce?

Asian vegetarian 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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