This Tofu Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a colorful and healthy dish. It features crispy tofu and a mix of fresh veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, all cooked together in a tasty sauce.
I like to toss everything in my wok and dance around the kitchen. My cat gives me funny looks when I cook like that!
I recommend serving it over rice or noodles for a quick, filling meal. It’s perfect when you want something bright and plant-based!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture. I often press it to drain excess water, which helps it crisp up nicely. A friendly substitute is tempeh if you want a different protein with a nutty flavor.
Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots are crunchy and add color. I slice them thin so they cook quickly. As a substitute, snap peas or zucchini work well for variety.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. I recommend low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching salt. Coconut aminos is a great mild, gluten-free alternative.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger give a bright flavor. I love grating ginger for quick blending. If you’re out, garlic powder and ground ginger can compensate, though fresh is better.
Vegetable Oil: Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil to stir-fry. I prefer light oils for quick heat, but sesame oil adds a nutty aroma if added at the end for flavor.
How do I stir-fry vegetables without overcooking them?
Start by heating your oil until it’s shimmering. Add firmer veggies like carrots and broccoli first, cook for 2-3 minutes. Then throw in softer vegetables like peppers and snap peas, stir for another 2-3 minutes. Keep stirring to prevent burning.
- Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Cook in batches if your pan is crowded to keep the temperature high.
- Stir consistently so veggies are crisp-tender, not mushy.
How to Make Tofu Stir-Fry with Vegetables?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir-Fry
- 14 oz firm tofu, cubed
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation time: 10 minutes; Cooking time: 15 minutes; Total time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the ingredients
Cube the tofu and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic and grate ginger. Gather all ingredients before starting.
2. Cook the tofu
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu cubes. Cook until golden brown for about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Stir-fry the vegetables
In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Toss in mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.
4. Make the sauce
Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl. Mix well.
5. Combine everything
Add cooked tofu back to the skillet with vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2 minutes.
