Looking to add a healthy, protein-packed twist to your vegetarian meals? Veg tofu recipes are the perfect solution!
Tofu, often called the “plant-based protein powerhouse,” is incredibly versatile and can absorb flavors beautifully, making it an excellent ingredient to elevate your vegetable dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, these recipes promise vibrant, nutritious meals that satisfy both your taste buds and your body.
From stir-fries bursting with colorful veggies to hearty tofu curries, these recipes are simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. Plus, tofu’s mild flavor means you can get creative with sauces, spices, and cooking techniques.
Dive into these delicious veg tofu recipes and discover how easy it is to prepare satisfying, wholesome meals that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tofu and vegetables create a balanced dish packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein, ideal for anyone seeking nutritious meals without compromising on flavor. These recipes are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy lifestyles, and they’re incredibly adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand.
You’ll appreciate how tofu soaks up the spices and sauces, turning every bite into a delicious experience. Additionally, these recipes cater to a variety of dietary needs: vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie options abound.
Best of all, once you master these basics, you can experiment endlessly with international flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 400g firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola or sunflower)
- 1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced, any color)
- 1 medium carrot (julienned)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 zucchini (sliced)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander or green onions for garnish
Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet or wok
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Paper towels or clean kitchen towel (for pressing tofu)
Instructions
- Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in paper towels and place a heavy object on top. Let it press for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps it crisp up nicely.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Set aside.
- Heat the skillet: Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat in your skillet or wok.
- Cook tofu: Add the cubed tofu to the pan in a single layer. Let it cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip and cook the other sides until all are crispy and golden. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent (about 2 minutes).
- Add the rest of the vegetables: Stir in bell pepper, carrot, broccoli, and zucchini. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies are tender but still crisp.
- Combine tofu and sauce: Return tofu to the pan and pour the sauce over everything. Toss gently to coat tofu and vegetables evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes so flavors meld together.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh coriander or sliced green onions before serving.
Tips & Variations
Tip: For even crispier tofu, coat the cubes lightly with cornstarch before frying.
Try swapping vegetables according to the season. Snow peas, mushrooms, or baby corn work wonderfully.
Add a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra flavor boost.
For a creamy variation, stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter or tahini with the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Sodium | 650 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This veg tofu stir-fry is perfect served over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It also pairs beautifully with warm flatbreads or as a filling for wraps and lettuce cups.
If you want to boost the meal further, consider a side of Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or a fresh cucumber salad to add crispness and balance.
Conclusion
Veg tofu recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, protein-rich meal that’s both versatile and delicious. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these dishes can quickly become your go-to for nutritious weeknight dinners or impressive weekend lunches.
The beauty of tofu lies in its adaptability: it takes on flavors brilliantly and complements a wide variety of vegetables and spices.
By incorporating these recipes into your rotation, you’ll not only enjoy tasty meals but also reap the benefits of plant-based eating. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or sauces to make each dish your own.
For more exciting vegetarian ideas, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.
More Delicious Veg Tofu Recipes to Try
Spicy Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This fiery dish combines tofu with crunchy bell peppers, snap peas, and a spicy chili-garlic sauce. Quick to make and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for spice lovers.
Ingredients
- 400g firm tofu (cubed)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili paste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Press tofu and cube as described above.
- Heat oil in a skillet, fry tofu until golden and set aside.
- Sauté garlic briefly, add bell pepper and snap peas; cook until tender-crisp.
- Return tofu, stir in soy sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil.
- Cook for 2 more minutes, garnish, and serve hot.
Tofu and Vegetable Curry
A creamy, mildly spiced curry with tofu, potatoes, carrots, and peas. Ideal for cozy dinners and pairs beautifully with naan or rice.
Ingredients
- 400g firm tofu (cubed)
- 1 medium potato (cubed)
- 1 carrot (sliced)
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add curry powder, stir for 1 minute to release aromas.
- Add potatoes, carrots, tofu, and coconut milk. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until veggies are tender.
- Stir in peas, season with salt and pepper.
- Cook 5 more minutes and serve with rice or bread.
Tofu and Vegetable Skewers
Grilled tofu and vegetable skewers marinated in a tangy sauce make a perfect appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
- 400g firm tofu (cubed)
- Cherry tomatoes
- Bell peppers (cut into chunks)
- Red onion (quartered)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic in a bowl.
- Marinate tofu and vegetables for at least 1 hour.
- Thread tofu and veggies alternately onto skewers.
- Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and cooked.
- Serve hot with a side salad or dipping sauce.
For more vegetarian inspiration, explore our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners to add exciting flavors to your repertoire.
📖 Recipe Card: Spicy Veg Tofu Stir-Fry
Description: A quick and healthy stir-fry combining tofu and fresh vegetables with a spicy sauce. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Remove tofu and set aside.
- In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and onion; sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot; stir-fry for 5 minutes.
- Return tofu to the pan and add soy sauce and chili sauce.
- Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Drizzle sesame oil and mix well.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 12 g
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