Crispy Tofu Stir Fry (Printable version)

Golden tofu cubes with colorful vegetables in a flavorful savory sauce, ready in under 40 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Tofu

01 - 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
02 - 2 tbsp cornstarch
03 - 2 tbsp neutral oil (canola or sunflower)

→ Vegetables

04 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced
05 - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
06 - 1 medium carrot, julienned
07 - 3.5 oz sugar snap peas, trimmed
08 - 3.5 oz broccoli florets
09 - 2 spring onions, sliced
10 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
11 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

→ Stir Fry Sauce

12 - 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
13 - 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
14 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar
15 - 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
16 - 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
17 - 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)

→ Garnish

18 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds
19 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Cut the pressed tofu into 3/4-inch cubes and toss evenly with cornstarch.
02 - Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
03 - Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add sliced bell peppers, julienned carrot, sugar snap peas, and broccoli florets. Stir fry for 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
05 - Whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, and optional chili flakes in a small bowl.
06 - Return crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour sauce over and toss to coat evenly. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through and sauce slightly thickens.
07 - Remove from heat, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro before serving.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • Sharing this recipe feels like passing on a little kitchen magic where tofu turns irresistibly crispy every single time
  • The balance between the fresh veggies and savory sauce makes it a go-to for busy weeknights when you want flavor fast
02 -
  • Pressing your tofu properly is everything—don&t skip this step if you want crispiness that lasts
  • Letting the sauce rest a few minutes before adding gives the flavors a chance to marry perfectly
03 -
  • Make sure your pan is hot before adding tofu; the sear won&t happen otherwise
  • The little secret that changed everything for me was tossing tofu in cornstarch evenly before cooking to lock in crispiness