Tofu Stir Fry With Vegetables In A Soy Sesame Sauce

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring crispy tofu and vibrant veggies, all coated in a savory soy, vegetable broth, and honey (or maple syrup) sauce—ready in just 30 minutes and perfect as a protein-packed dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly delicious—loads of fresh vegetables and flavorful tofu that’s easy to prep.

• Flavorful and flexible—a simple yet satisfying sauce elevated with garlic and ginger, and endless customization options.

• Nutritious and inclusive—vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, high in protein and fiber.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sauce

• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free soy sauce)

• ¼ cup reduced-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 tablespoon honey (or brown sugar for a vegan version)

Stir Fry

• 16 oz super firm tofu, drained and pressed

• 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free soy sauce)

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., grapeseed or canola)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 red bell pepper, diced (½-inch pieces)

• 1 small bunch broccolini, chopped (1-inch pieces)

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vegetable broth, and honey. Set aside.

2. Cut tofu into ½-inch cubes after pressing. Toss with 1 tablespoon soy sauce.

3. Sprinkle tofu with cornstarch and gently toss until evenly coated.

4. Heat neutral oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and crisp each side, cooking undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

5. Add sesame oil, bell pepper, and broccolini to the same skillet. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

6. Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds.

7. Return tofu to skillet. Add sauce and toss everything together. Cook for 1–2 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.

8. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 4 (about 1 cup per serving)

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap in vegetables like broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms.

• Replace tofu with shrimp or diced chicken for a non-vegetarian option.

• Use maple syrup or brown sugar instead of honey for a vegan version.

• Add heat with sriracha, chili flakes, or hot sauce.

• Serve over rice, soba noodles, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. What Type Of Tofu Works Best?

Super firm or extra firm tofu works best for achieving a crispy texture.

2. Do I Need To Press The Tofu?

Yes, pressing removes moisture, which helps the tofu crisp up nicely when cooked.

3. Can I Make This Gluten-Free?

Yes, just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

4. Can I Add More Vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, snow peas, shredded carrots, or baby corn.

5. How Can I Make This Dish Spicy?

Add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

6. Is This Good For Meal Prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be stored in individual containers for quick meals.

7. Can I Use A Different Sweetener?

Yes, maple syrup or brown sugar are great alternatives to honey.

8. Can I Freeze Leftovers?

It’s not ideal—freezing can change the texture of the tofu—but it’s possible if needed.

9. How Do I Keep The Tofu From Sticking To The Pan?

Use a nonstick skillet and allow the tofu to cook undisturbed before flipping.

10. What Can I Serve This With?

Serve with rice, noodles, or keep it low-carb with cauliflower rice or zoodles.

Conclusion

This tofu stir fry with vegetables in a soy sesame sauce is a fast, flexible, and flavorful recipe perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep. It offers the perfect balance of crispy textures, bold flavors, and nutritious ingredients that will keep you coming back for more.

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