Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry

Name: Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making this Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry whenever I crave something nutritious and satisfying. The combination of crispy tofu, colorful vegetables, and a zesty sauce creates a delightful feast for the senses. In just 30 minutes, I can whip this up for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends. It's a versatile dish, too, allowing me to customize the veggies based on what's in season or what I have in my fridge. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:50:27.865Z

One of my favorite things about this Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry is how adaptable it is. The first time I made it, I used whatever vegetables I had lying around. The result was a dish bursting with flavor and texture. I learned that using a mix of bright colors not only makes it visually appealing but also maximizes the nutrition!

Another tip that transformed my stir-fry game is the tofu technique. Pressing the tofu before cooking ensures it's crispy instead of soggy. This small step has taken my stir-fry from average to absolutely delicious. I'm always excited to share this simple yet flavorful recipe with others!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy tofu that adds a satisfying crunch
Vibrant, fresh vegetables that bring color and nutrients
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights

Mastering the Tofu

Pressing tofu is a crucial step to achieving crispy results. By removing excess moisture, you allow the cornstarch to adhere better, which forms a delightful crunchy crust. I usually wrap the cubed tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. This way, I ensure the tofu absorbs flavors more effectively during cooking.

The key to golden, crispy tofu is the cooking temperature. Start with medium-high heat and allow the oil to shimmer before adding the coated tofu. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan; if the tofu pieces are too close together, they will steam instead of fry, leading to less crispiness. Cook in batches if necessary!

Perfecting the Stir-Fry

Cooking vegetables in a stir-fry is all about timing. Start with the denser vegetables, like broccoli, to ensure they become tender yet retain a slight crunch. Adding minced garlic afterward allows it to release its fragrant oils without burning, which can happen if added too early. This helps create a perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

You can customize the vegetables based on the season or personal preference, but aim for a mix of colors and textures. Green beans, snap peas, or even carrots can be excellent substitutes for bell peppers. Just remember to cut them uniformly to achieve even cooking, ensuring everything is tender-crisp and vibrant.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious stir-fry!

Ingredients

14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

Make sure to prep your veggies in advance for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your stir-fry perfectly!

Prepare the Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Once pressed, cut tofu into cubes and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.

Cook the Tofu

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Then throw in the broccoli and bell peppers, stir-frying for about 5 minutes until they're tender-crisp.

Combine Everything

Return the crispy tofu to the pan and add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to coat everything in the flavorful sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your delicious crispy tofu stir-fry over rice or noodles!

Let the stir-fry cool slightly before serving it hot!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can add nuts like cashews or peanuts just before serving.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry refrigerates well, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. Store it in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water for moisture to prevent the tofu from becoming chewy. Microwave reheating is also an option, but be cautious as it may lead to a softer texture.

If you're making this ahead of time, consider storing the tofu and vegetables in separate containers. This prevents the tofu from losing its delightful crunch until you're ready to eat. You can also prepare the sauce in advance; just mix the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While serving your stir-fry over rice is a classic choice, consider mixing it up. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can provide a nutritious base that enhances your dish’s texture. For extra flavor, you can stir in some cooked rice or noodles right at the end for a heartier meal.

Feel free to enhance your dish with other toppings. Adding a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can introduce a spicy kick. Toasted nuts, like cashews or peanuts, also offer a delightful crunch that complements the tofu beautifully. These additions help elevate your stir-fry and cater to all taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever veggies you have on hand, such as snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry is completely vegan and packed with plant-based proteins.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Certainly! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.