Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Rainbow Vegetables in Garlic Soy Sauce

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

A vibrant vegetarian stir-fry featuring crispy tofu and a medley of colorful vegetables tossed in a savory garlic soy sauce. This asian fusion-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends extra-firm tofu, drained and cubed, broccoli florets, medium carrot, julienned 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 Asian Fusion cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 14 oz cubed extra-firm tofu with 1 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and pan-fry the tofu cubes for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 large sliced red bell pepper, 2 cups broccoli florets, 1 julienned carrot, and 1 cup snap peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: Whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce and 1/4 cup water, then pour over the vegetables. Return the tofu to the skillet and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and veggies.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions and 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Rainbow Vegetables in Garlic Soy 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 Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Rainbow Vegetables in Garlic Soy 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 Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Rainbow Vegetables in Garlic Soy 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 Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Rainbow Vegetables in Garlic Soy 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 Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Rainbow Vegetables in Garlic Soy Sauce 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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