Crispy Tofu Stir Fry (Printable Version)
A vibrant stir fry blending crispy tofu with fresh bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas in a savory glaze.
# What You Need:
→ Tofu
01 - 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into ¾-inch cubes
02 - 2 tbsp cornstarch
03 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil
→ Vegetables
04 - 1 red bell pepper, sliced
05 - 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
06 - 1 medium carrot, sliced diagonally
07 - 5 oz broccoli florets
08 - 3.5 oz sugar snap peas, trimmed
09 - 2 spring onions, sliced
10 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
11 - 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
→ Sauce
12 - 3 tbsp soy sauce (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 - 2 tbsp water
18 - 1 tsp cornstarch
# How to Make It:
01 - Press the tofu for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into ¾-inch cubes and toss with 2 tablespoons cornstarch until evenly coated.
02 - Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove tofu and set aside.
03 - In the same pan, add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Add bell peppers, carrot, broccoli florets, and sugar snap peas to the pan. Stir fry for 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are just tender but retain crispness.
05 - While vegetables cook, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, water, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch in a small bowl.
06 - Return the tofu to the pan and pour in the sauce. Toss to coat all components evenly and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
07 - Remove from heat, sprinkle with sliced spring onions, and serve immediately. Optionally, serve over steamed rice or noodles.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It’s a vibrant, plant-based meal that feels indulgent yet healthy, perfect for sharing secrets with your best friend about simple cooking hacks
- The crispy tofu combined with fresh vegetables and savory sauce quickly became a favorite because it’s both satisfying and adaptable
02 -
- Pressing tofu thoroughly is the secret step people often skip but makes all the difference in texture
- Whisking the sauce ingredients separately before adding keeps flavors well combined and prevents clumps
03 -
- Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned wok to prevent tofu from sticking and breaking
- Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding tofu so you get that lovely crisp crust quickly