Name: Delicious Tofu Stir-Fry: Quick, Nutritious & Flavor-Packed
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 14 ounces extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or grapeseed oil); 2 cups cabbage (chopped, any type); 1 cup broccoli (florets); ¼ cup peanut butter (or almond butter for nut-free); 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust according to heat tolerance); 1 tablespoon vinegar (rice or apple cider vinegar); 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan); 2 tablespoons ginger (fresh, chopped); 2 cloves garlic (fresh, minced)

The aroma of sizzling vegetables and the warm crunch of crispy tofu fill my kitchen as I whip up this quick, 15-minute Vegan Tofu Stir-Fry with Umami-Packed Peanut Sauce. Who would have thought that a homemade meal could be this simple and satisfying? This dish bursts with vibrant colors and textures, from the tender broccoli to the various vegetables you might choose to toss in. Not only is it a delicious alternative to fast food, but it’s also customizable for any taste—perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight but nutrition is a priority. And with a creamy peanut sauce that’s just the right amount of spicy, your tastebuds are in for a treat! Curious about how to make this weeknight wonder and switch up your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this Tofu Stir-Fry a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight solution for anyone short on time.

Flavor Explosion: The creamy peanut sauce adds a rich, umami-packed punch that elevates simple vegetables and tofu into a satisfying meal.

Endless Versatility: Feel free to experiment! Swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins—it’s as versatile as your cravings allow. Don’t forget to check out my Ground Beef Enchiladas for another quick, flavorful meal idea.

Healthy Choice: Packed with plant-based protein from tofu and a rainbow of veggies, this stir-fry is not only good for your taste buds but also your health.

Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your palate, ensuring this recipe can cater to everyone’s preference.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether cooking for family or hosting friends, this delicious stir-fry is sure to impress with its vibrant presentation and delightful flavors!

Delicious Tofu Stir-Fry Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

Tofu – Use extra-firm tofu for ultimate crispiness; pressing it well removes excess moisture.
Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying the tofu to a golden brown; try grapeseed oil if you need a substitution.
Cabbage – Crunchy and versatile; any type works, so feel free to choose your preference!
Broccoli – Adds bright color and essential nutrients; feel free to swap it with other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas.

For the Peanut Sauce

Peanut Butter – The star of the sauce, delivering creamy richness; almond butter can replace it for a nut-free alternative.
Soy Sauce – A must for a depth of flavor; opt for tamari if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
Chili Sauce – Introduces a lovely kick; adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Vinegar – Balances the flavors beautifully; rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar works great.
Honey – Sweetens the sauce; use maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
Ginger and Garlic – Fresh aromatics that infuse the sauce with depth; nothing beats the flavor of fresh.

With these vibrant ingredients, your delicious tofu stir-fry is just moments away from coming together in a beautiful medley of flavors and textures!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Tofu Stir-Fry

Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a blender, combine 2 tablespoons of ginger, 2 cloves of garlic, ¼ cup of peanut butter, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of chili sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 2-3 tablespoons of water. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides if necessary. Set the peanut sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Tofu
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 14 ounces of well-pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked tofu to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in 2 cups of chopped cabbage and 1 cup of broccoli florets. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re tender yet still crisp. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re bright in color and fragrant, creating a perfect base for your delicious tofu stir-fry.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the crispy tofu back to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in about half of the prepared peanut sauce and gently stir to combine everything evenly. Cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes on medium heat, allowing the tofu and vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce and warm through, creating a cohesive dish.

Step 5: Serve the Stir-Fry
Once everything is heated and well mixed, plate your delicious tofu stir-fry over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or noodles. Drizzle the remaining peanut sauce over the top for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with sliced green onions, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds for added texture and a delightful finish.

How to Store and Freeze Delicious Tofu Stir-Fry

Fridge: Keep your leftover stir-fry in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry in a suitable container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop.

Reheating: To maintain the texture, reheat your delicious tofu stir-fry in a skillet rather than a microwave. Add a bit of oil if needed for extra crispness.

Veggie Considerations: Note that some vegetables may lose their crunch after freezing, so consider freezing only the tofu and sauce if that matters to you.

What to Serve with Delicious Tofu Stir-Fry?

A complete meal is just around the corner—discover flavors and textures that elevate this delightful stir-fry!

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The soft, aromatic rice soaks up the creamy peanut sauce, making each bite even more satisfying. It’s a comforting classic that never disappoints.
Zesty Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with rice vinegar and sesame oil add a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm stir-fry.
Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles, infused with garlic and soy sauce, complement the tofu’s savory notes wonderfully, creating a fulfilling meal.
Spicy Kimchi: Adding a few spoonfuls of this tangy, fermented dish offers a punchy kick that balances the dish’s richness, bringing a delightful layer of flavor.
Mixed Greens: A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette introduces a fresh element, making your meal even more vibrant.
Chilled Coconut Water: This lightly sweet drink is perfect to cleanse the palate, enhancing the experience of enjoying your flavorful stir-fry.
Coconut Rice Pudding: For dessert, this creamy treat adds a sweet, tropical finish that pairs well with the stir-fry’s savory components, leaving you satisfied.
Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea is not only soothing but also complements the meal, aiding digestion after a delicious tofu stir-fry.
Sesame Brittle: A crunchy, sweet treat that rounds out your meal while offering contrasting textures and flavors for a delightful end.

Expert Tips for Delicious Tofu Stir-Fry

Press Your Tofu: Ensure you press the extra-firm tofu well to remove moisture, achieving a perfectly crispy texture in your stir-fry.
Heat Control: Maintain a steady medium-high heat while cooking to avoid steaming and ensure an enticing golden brown on your tofu.
Veggie Variety: Feel free to swap out the cabbage and broccoli for your favorite vegetables; just adjust cooking times for softer or crunchier veggies.
Prepare Ahead: Make the peanut sauce in advance and chop your vegetables beforehand, so assembling the stir-fry is swift and stress-free on busy nights.
Taste Test: Before serving, always taste your stir-fry and adjust the peanut sauce according to your preference, ensuring a delightful balance of flavors.
Customize Heat: Modify the amount of chili sauce to suit your spice level, making this a family-friendly delicious tofu stir-fry that everyone can enjoy!

Delicious Tofu Stir-Fry Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun tweaks and substitutions!

Tempeh Swap: Replace tofu with tempeh for a heartier, nutty flavor and added protein.
Extra Veggies: Toss in carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers to infuse more color and nutrients into your stir-fry. Enjoy the crunch!
Nut-Free Sauce: If you’re avoiding nuts, use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for the sauce; it will still deliver a delightful flavor.
Spice it Up: Adjust the chili sauce based on your heat preference—add more for a fiery kick or leave it out for a milder dish.
Rice Alternatives: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a protein-packed, low-carb option that complements the stir-fry beautifully.
Soy-Free Option: For a soy-free dish, swap soy sauce for coconut aminos or even a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
Herb Infusion: Boost the flavor by adding fresh basil or cilantro to the finished dish; these herbs add a fragrant touch that’s simply delightful.
Umami Enhancement: Try adding a splash of rice wine vinegar or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to the stir-fry for an extra depth of umami flavor.

With these variations, this delicious tofu stir-fry can easily cater to your dietary needs or flavor cravings. And speaking of flavor, if you’re ever in the mood for another delightful dish, don’t miss my easy Sesame Chicken Discover recipe— a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead Options

These delicious tofu stir-fry components are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the peanut sauce up to 24 hours in advance—just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. Additionally, you can chop your vegetables and cube the tofu the night before, keeping them in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. However, be sure to pat the tofu dry before cooking to ensure maximum crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the tofu and vegetables together as directed, coating them in the pre-made peanut sauce for a quick, flavorful meal that will save you precious time on busy nights!

Delicious Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs

What type of tofu should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using extra-firm tofu. This type holds its shape beautifully and crisps up nicely when properly pressed to remove excess moisture. Simply wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy pan on top for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.

How should I store leftovers from the stir-fry?
Very good question! Store any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When it’s time to reheat, gently warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it from drying out.

Can I freeze my tofu stir-fry?
Certainly! For longer storage, freeze your delicious tofu stir-fry in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge. For the best texture upon reheating, I suggest warming it up in a skillet rather than the microwave to retain that lovely crispiness.

What should I do if my peanut sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your peanut sauce ends up thickening more than desired, simply add a bit of warm water or additional soy sauce to reach your preferred consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time, blend, and taste until you achieve the perfect creaminess for your stir-fry!

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This dish contains peanuts, soy, and can include gluten if using regular soy sauce. If you or your guests have allergies, consider substituting peanut butter with almond or sun butter for a nut-free option and using tamari to ensure it’s gluten-free. Always confirm with guests to ensure all dietary restrictions are met!

Can I add different vegetables to my stir-fry?
The more the merrier! Feel free to swap in a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas according to your preferences. Just remember to adjust the cooking times to ensure they’re cooked to your desired level of tenderness—keeping them colorful and nutritious is key!