Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Spicy Sesame Sauce

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

A colorful medley of crisp vegetables and pan-fried tofu tossed in a savory, spicy sesame sauce for a vibrant vegan dinner. This asian-inspired vegan ready in about 35 minutes blends block extra-firm tofu, broccoli florets, large julienned carrot 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 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: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Asian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Press 14 oz block extra-firm tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Add 2 cups broccoli florets, 1 medium sliced red bell pepper, 1 large julienned carrot, and 1 cup snap peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
  5. Step 5: Meanwhile, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 3 tbsp water until smooth.
  6. Step 6: Return tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
  7. Step 7: Remove from heat, sprinkle with 3 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Spicy Sesame Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 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 Spicy Sesame 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 Spicy Sesame 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 Spicy Sesame 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.

Is Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu and Spicy Sesame 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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