Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Mixed Vegetables Recipe
A quick, easy, and protein-packed stir-fry with crispy tofu, colorful vegetables, and a homemade stir-fry sauce—perfect for a healthy, balanced meal!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Vegan
Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowls
For the Crispy Tofu:
- 1 block 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp cornstarch for extra crispiness
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil
For the Stir-Fry Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 carrot julienned
- 1 small zucchini sliced
- ½ cup snap peas or green beans
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp ginger grated
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce optional, for extra flavor
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- ½ ½ sesame oil
- ½ ½ red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water to thicken sauce
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
- Crushed peanuts or cashews
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and press it under a heavy object for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Cube and coat: Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and toss with cornstarch and soy sauce for a crispy texture.
Cook the tofu: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add 1 tbsp sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
Step 3: Make the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture to help thicken the sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the crispy tofu to the pan with the vegetables.
Pour in the stir-fry sauce and toss everything together until well coated. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and crushed peanuts for extra flavor and crunch.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Extra Protein: Add edamame or tempeh for more plant-based protein.