Stir fry dishes are a vibrant celebration of fresh vegetables and bold flavors, and when paired with tofu, they become a powerhouse of nutrition and taste. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, the best vegetable with tofu stir fry recipes offer a quick, delicious, and wholesome option for any day of the week.
These recipes are incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match your favorite veggies and sauces to create a dish that suits your palate perfectly.
In this blog post, we’ll explore not just one, but several standout vegetable and tofu stir fry recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. From colorful bell peppers and crunchy snap peas to silky tofu cubes and savory sauces, you’ll learn everything you need to whip up mouthwatering stir fries that your whole family will love.
Plus, you’ll find tips on equipment, ingredient substitutions, and nutritional benefits so you can enjoy this meal guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Vegetable tofu stir fries are an excellent way to enjoy a balanced meal without spending hours in the kitchen. They are nutrient-dense, offering plenty of vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein.
The quick cooking method preserves the vibrant colors and crisp textures of the vegetables, making each bite fresh and satisfying.
Moreover, these recipes are highly adaptable. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a sweet tang, or a simple savory glaze, you can customize the stir fry sauce to your liking.
Tofu acts as the perfect canvas, soaking up all the delicious flavors while adding a creamy texture. This dish is perfect for meal prepping, quick weeknight dinners, or even impressing guests at a casual gathering.
Finally, cooking at home means you control the ingredients, making it easy to keep the dish gluten-free, low-sodium, or soy-free if needed. Ready to dive in?
Let’s start with the first recipe and then explore two more exciting variations!
Ingredients
Classic Vegetable & Tofu Stir Fry
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Spicy Peanut Vegetable & Tofu Stir Fry
- 14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 3 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Chopped peanuts for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Ginger-Soy Vegetable & Tofu Stir Fry with Mushrooms
- 14 oz firm tofu, cubed
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup baby bok choy, chopped
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Cooked jasmine rice for serving
Equipment
- Large non-stick or cast iron skillet / wok
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowls for marinating tofu and sauce preparation
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Paper towels or clean kitchen towel for pressing tofu
- Optional: tofu press for easier pressing
Instructions
Classic Vegetable & Tofu Stir Fry
- Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes to remove excess water. This helps the tofu crisp up when cooking.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the tofu: Add tofu cubes and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 7-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Toss in the broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas. Stir fry for 5-6 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.
- Combine tofu and sauce: Return tofu to the pan. Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Thicken sauce (optional): Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Spicy Peanut Vegetable & Tofu Stir Fry
- Press and cube tofu: Remove excess moisture from tofu as in the classic recipe.
- Make peanut sauce: Whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and garlic in a bowl until smooth.
- Cook tofu: Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Brown tofu cubes on all sides and set aside.
- Stir fry vegetables: Add green beans, bell pepper, and zucchini to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add tofu and sauce: Return tofu to the pan and pour peanut sauce over everything. Toss to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. Enjoy with jasmine rice or quinoa.
Ginger-Soy Vegetable & Tofu Stir Fry with Mushrooms
- Prepare tofu: Press and cube the tofu as described previously.
- Mix sauce: Combine soy sauce, mirin, grated ginger, and garlic in a bowl.
- Cook tofu: Heat oil in wok/skillet, add tofu, and cook until golden brown. Remove and keep aside.
- Cook vegetables: Add mushrooms, carrot, and bok choy to the pan. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes.
- Add tofu and sauce: Return tofu to the pan, add the sauce, and stir to coat ingredients.
- Finish with sesame oil: Drizzle sesame oil over the stir fry before serving.
- Serve: Plate with warm jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
“For best tofu texture, always press the tofu well to remove excess water. This helps it crisp during frying and prevents sogginess.”
- Vegetable swaps: Feel free to use zucchini, mushrooms, baby corn, bok choy, or any seasonal veggies you love.
- Sauce variations: Add hoisin sauce for sweetness, chili paste for heat, or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
- Protein options: Replace tofu with tempeh, seitan, or chickpeas if preferred.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Add crunch: Toss in cashews or sliced almonds for texture contrast.
- Make the dish nut-free: Skip peanut butter and substitute with sunflower seed butter or tahini in the spicy peanut version.
For more delicious plant-based recipes, check out these favorites: Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals, Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners, and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount (per serving) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Calories | 320-400 kcal | Varies with sauce and oil used |
Protein | 18-22 grams | Mainly from tofu |
Fat | 15-20 grams | Healthy fats from oils and peanut butter (if used) |
Carbohydrates | 25-30 grams | Includes fiber from vegetables |
Fiber | 6-8 grams | From mixed vegetables |
Sodium | 600-800 mg | Adjust soy sauce to reduce sodium |
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable and tofu stir fry pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a hearty bowl, or try it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, or a squeeze of lime to brighten flavors.
Consider pairing your stir fry with simple sides like steamed edamame, a light cucumber salad, or even some spring rolls for a fun appetizer. If you enjoy noodle dishes, toss your stir fry with cooked soba or rice noodles for a satisfying alternative.
Conclusion
Vegetable and tofu stir fries are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful, and quick meal any time of the week. The beauty of these recipes lies in their flexibility — you can customize the vegetables, sauces, and seasonings to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Whether you prefer the classic soy-ginger style, a spicy peanut twist, or a mushroom and bok choy medley, these recipes promise delicious results with minimal effort.
By mastering these stir fry recipes, you’ll have a go-to dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Don’t forget to explore more tasty and wholesome recipes like Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas to keep your menu exciting and diverse.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegetable with Tofu Stir Fry
Description: A quick and healthy stir fry packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich tofu. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Press and cube the tofu.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
- Add bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and snap peas; stir fry for 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil.
- Cook for another 2 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 18 g
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