A tofu stir fry is a delicious, quick, and healthy meal that comes together in one pan, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights. With crispy tofu, a variety of fresh vegetables, and a savory stir-fry sauce, this dish is light but satisfying, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures.
The key to a perfect tofu stir fry is getting your tofu crispy. Start by pressing out the excess water from the tofu block, then cut it into cubes. Toss it with a bit of cornstarch, salt, and pepper, then pan-fry in a hot skillet with a bit of oil until each piece is golden and crispy. This crispy texture is the perfect contrast to the tender vegetables that will be added later.
For the vegetables, you can go with whatever you have on hand, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snow peas, and mushrooms all make great additions. Stir-fry the veggies for just a few minutes until they’re tender-crisp, preserving their vibrant colors and natural crunch. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or what’s in season.
The real magic happens when you add the stir-fry sauce. A simple blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a dash of sesame oil gives the dish that classic Asian-inspired flavor. You can sweeten it up with a little honey or maple syrup, and a splash of rice vinegar adds just the right amount of tang. Stir everything together and let the sauce coat the crispy tofu and veggies.
Serve your tofu stir fry over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal. For extra crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top or add a handful of chopped peanuts.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a healthy and flavorful meal, this tofu stir fry is the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s quick, customizable, and full of fresh, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients
- 200 g tofu sliced into cubes
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 1 carrot sliced
- 1 broccoli florets separated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ginger minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 3 Green onions chopped
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Add tofu cubes to the bowl and toss to coat them in the sauce.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
- Add sliced bell peppers, carrot, and broccoli to the skillet and stir fry for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the marinated tofu cubes to the other side.
- Cook the tofu for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Season the stir fry with salt and black pepper, to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve the tofu stir fry hot over steamed rice or noodles.
No idea what tofu be, never heard of it. Maybe I’ll try it someday.
Turned out way better than I expected—crispy tofu edges and the veggies stayed nice and crunchy. I used a bit more ginger too. Definitely making again!
Nice! “Tender-crisp” is the sweet spot—glad your tofu got those crispy edges. What kind of tofu did you use (firm/extra-firm)?
I keep making it soggy 😭. Do you think cooking the tofu on the sides longer (or using higher heat) would fix it? I wanna try again.
Not bad, but next time I’ll add more ginger. It needed a little kick!
Adding more ginger? I dunno… last time I tried that, it was too spicy for me. I guess it’s personal taste.
I think you’re spot on! A bit more ginger could really make it pop. I always love a good kick! 🌶️
This turned out way better than I expected—crispy tofu + crunchy veggies. I used a little extra garlic and it was perfect.
Love this! The garlic/ginger combo really makes it taste restaurant-level. I also did a quick extra toss at the end to keep everything crisp.
This is just meatless hippie food. Give me a steak any day!
wow, so colorful! I just did with whatever veggies I had at home.
This was amazing! I added some chili flakes for extra spice.
I love that you added chili flakes! Spice makes everything better. Can’t wait to try it myself!
I’m not sure if I did it right… my tofu just ended up soggy. Gonna try again though, maybe less sauce?
Don’t worry! Tofu can be tricky. Maybe try pressing it before cooking to remove excess moisture? It helps a lot! Good luck!
I dunno, maybe the tofu always soggy. Saw somewhere you gotta dry it with a towel first or something. Just don’t give up!
Pretty tasty, but mine got a little salty. Next time I’ll go lighter on soy sauce and add salt only at the end like you said. Still, the sesame oil flavor came through.
Mine was salty too the first time. I think 2 tbsp soy sauce + extra salt at the end is the culprit. I only do salt if it tastes like it needs it (usually it doesn’t).
Glad the sesame oil showed up for you! I agree—soy sauce can sneak up fast. Next time try using low-sodium soy or starting with like 1 tbsp and adjusting.
Simple and quick! I love how colorful it is! 😍
Followed the steps exactly. The cornstarch coating worked great, but next time I’ll press the tofu first so it browns even more.
Tofu stir fry?? I thought this was supposed to be a dessert?
Looks good. I made it for my vegan friend, haha, hope they like it! 🥢
Nah, this dish is just bland. Think I’ll stick to meat dishes.
I used to think tofu was bland too, but this stir fry changed my mind! The soy sauce and sesame oil really bring it to life. Give it another shot!
Honestly, tofu is just a vehicle for flavor. If you don’t season it enough, it’s gonna taste bland. Maybe try adding more spices next time?
This recipe is a lifesaver! Tofu stir fry has become my go-to dish. Easy to make and healthy! 🍽️
I tried it, but the tofu was mushy. Maybe I did something wrong?
I like the ingredient list—very straightforward. I used tamari instead of soy sauce and it still worked. Would recommend letting the tofu sit with the cornstarch mix a few minutes.
This is a comfort meal for me now. I serve it with rice and add extra green onions. Would be even better with mushrooms!
Love that comfort-meal vibe! 😄 Serving it with rice totally makes sense, and extra green onions is the right call. I’m with you on mushrooms too—would add a nice savory depth.
I think this needs more flavor. I added chili powder on myself and still blah!
What? This is a classic, you just gotta season it more! Maybe you should’ve let it marinate longer.
I totally agree! It was kinda bland for me too. Maybe try adding some soy sauce or hoisin sauce next time?
TOFU! Best thing I ever tasted. Never going back to meat.
Tofu is awesome! I was a meat lover too, but this stir fry changed my mind completely. I love how crispy it gets! 🤤
Idk man, tofu just ain’t for me. 1 star for trying!
This was easy to make, but I had to replace green bell pepper with zucchini. Still tasted gr8!
I skipped sesame seeds because I forgot, and honestly it still tasted great. Green onions made it feel restaurant-y.
Tofu doesn’t really brown for me… but I followed the ‘each side 3-4 minutes’ thing and it actually got golden. Big win.
2 thumbs up! So good I could eat it every day. 😂
The sesame oil + cornstarch combo is interesting… in a good way. I was worried it’d be too thick, but the veggies balanced it out. Tastes restaurant-y.
Can you use chicken instead of tofu? I think it would taste better with meat. Just sayin’!
I’m not sure about cooking tofu in cornstarch + soy sauce like that. Mine didn’t crisp much, more like soft stir-fry tofu. Still tasty, just not the texture I expected.
Delicious and healthy! I never thought I could enjoy tofu. Thanks for the recipe!
Easy and yummy! But I’m not sure what ‘stir fry’ means exactly. Is it when you fry it quick? Lol.
What’s cornstarch for? I just don’t get it 🤔
Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and gives a nice texture! It’s super helpful in stir fries! 😊
Best stir fry ever!!! I added cashews for crunch 😍❤️
Sesame seeds on top = elite. Also the sesame oil in the marinade smells amazing. I’ll definitely make this again.
I followed it and the veggies turned tender-crisp like they said, but I personally wanted more sauce. Could double soy sauce and keep everything else the same.
I’m not usually a tofu person, but the soy sauce/cornstarch combo gave it a nice texture. Pretty balanced flavors.
I don’t know about all these veggies… just feels off. Tofu is kinda bland.
This was a total flop! I didn’t like the texture of the tofu, and the sauce was too salty.
I’m sorry to hear that! Tofu can be tricky sometimes. Did you press it first? It might help with the texture!
Just made this and it was too salty for me. Used low sodium soy sauce but still!
Delish! Wasn’t so sure about the sesame oil at first but it really made it special.
Really? I thought it was too strong. Could’ve done without the sesame oil for my taste.
I totally agree! The sesame oil adds a nice flavor. Gonna make this again soon!
Kinda bland for me. I added more black pepper and a tiny splash of rice vinegar and it finally popped.
Made this with frozen broccoli because I was lazy. Flavor was good but texture was softer. Still a nice quick dinner.
Too many veggies for my taste. I think it would be better with just the peppers and tofu. More easy recipes plz.
I think the mix of veggies gives it flavor! More colors, more nutrients! But everyone’s taste is different, I get it.
Only peppers and tofu? That’s boring! The carrots and broccoli add great texture! Try it once, you might change your mind!
Dude! This tofu thing is what I’ve been looking for! Just don’t forget to press the tofu!
Tofu is so bland, how do you make it taste good? This recipe didn’t help me.
I don’t like tofu at all, but my wife loved this. I guess it’s good for people who like it, lol.
Tofu can be really hit or miss! I used to hate it too, but I found that the way it’s cooked makes a big difference. This stir fry does look tasty, though!
Nice balance of veggies. I used whatever I had in the fridge and it still turned out great! Just a tip for others.
This was so good! I added some chili flakes for a kick, and it was perfect. Will make again!
Too much veggies for me. Next time I’ll skip the broccoli and add chicken instead.
This is awesome! I’ve never made tofu before and was surprised how good it turned out! Thanks for sharing!
I’m so glad you liked it! Tofu can be tricky, but it’s such a versatile ingredient. What veggies did you decide to add?
Easy recipe! Even my kids loved it, and they’re picky eaters! 👍
This recipe was fantastic! I had never cooked tofu before, but this turned out so well! My family loved it!
So happy to hear that! Tofu can be tricky, but it sounds like you’ve nailed it. 😊
It was okay, but the tofu got too mushy for my taste. I think I cooked it too long. Any tips?
I wasn’t sure about the cornstarch, but it made the tofu crispy and nice.
I’m not sure about the sesame oil amount—my tofu tasted a little too nutty. Maybe my sesame oil was stronger than usual. Overall okay though.
Honestly, I found it kinda bland. Maybe it’s just me? I added some hot sauce but still wasn’t feeling it.
10/10
Honestly I love when tofu gets that golden sear—mixing soy sauce + cornstarch is the move. I’d just add a splash of water/extra soy if it gets too thick in the pan.
10/10 is bold 😅 I tried a similar one and my tofu came out kinda chewy, maybe I undercooked it? Still sounds tasty though. Sesame seeds on top are always good!
Best tofu stir fry I’ve ever made! The sauce is perfect. My family loved it!
So good! My whole family loved it. I added some noodles and it was a huge hit. Will definitely make again!
So happy to hear that! Adding noodles is a great idea! It sounds like you made it even better. 🤗
This tofu stir fry was amazing! So simple and delicious. I added some chili flakes for an extra kick! 🌶️
The sauce coating was perfect. I didn’t have cornstarch so I used flour (oops) and it still worked, just thicker. Next time I’ll do cornstarch proper.
Gotta say, not a big fan of the texture. But my sister loved it.
Well, textures can be tricky! Maybe try adding some extra veggies next time to mix things up?
I don’t know how anyone can like tofu…just mushy and weird. But to each their own!
Not gonna lie, my tofu didn’t get golden brown at all—more like chewy. I think my pan was overcrowded. Flavor was solid, texture was the only miss.
Yummy! I added some chili flakes for kick. Definitely will make again! 😋
Good recipe, but I think I prefer my stir fry with chicken. Tofu’s not for everyone!
Tofu can be great, but chicken has that extra flavor! I’m with you on that one.
I dunno, I think tofu can really soak up the sauce and tastes nice if you cook it right! But hey, chicken is good too.
Absolutely delicious! I made this for dinner and it was a hit with the whole family. The tofu was so crispy!
I’m glad you liked it! The crispy tofu really makes this dish special, doesn’t it?
Meh. Not a fan of the textures. Guess I’ll stick to my steak.
Everyone has their preferences! Steak is delicious, but tofu can be tasty too if it’s cooked right. Maybe give it another try sometime?
Soooo yummy!!! I put added peanuts too, really adds crunch!!
Five stars! Tofu recipe finally worked 😄
Simple and fast! I’m not a big cook, but I managed this perfectly. Thanks!
Really? I tried it and the tofu got all mushy. Maybe I did something wrong? 😕
I love how easy this is! I’m not great at cooking either, but this recipe worked out for me too! 😋
The sesame oil amount threw me off at first, but I think it gave it a nice nutty flavor. I did wish it had more sauce though—maybe double the soy/cornstarch mixture?
Yum, loved it! Used brown rice instead of white for a healthier twist. Will definitely make again!
I’m not sure about the cornstarch. Can I just skip it? My mom never uses it.
Too many veggies, not enough sauce imo. I’d either double the sauce or reduce the vegetable amount.
Yum! This is the best stir fry I’ve ever made. I added some cashews and it was perfect.
Cashews sound great! I bet they add a nice crunch. Can’t wait to try this! 😊
Just made this, but I forgot the ginger! Still good but I bet it would be better with it. 🤷
That’s great you still enjoyed it! Ginger does add a nice kick though. Maybe next time?
Way too much garlic. Like, it was overpowering. Next time I’ll add less.
Can you use chicken instead of tofu? My husband doesn’t eat that “plant stuff”.
Sure, chicken would probably work! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time a bit. My husband likes chicken too, so I get it!
I dunno, isn’t tofu healthier? But chicken’s good too, I guess. Just different flavor, right?
I was skeptical about only 5-7 minutes for broccoli, but it’s actually perfect “tender-crisp.” Next time I’ll do a little extra ginger.
Not sure about the cornstarch… I guess it makes it crispy? But mine turned out kinda mushy.
Tofu? Yuck! Not my thing, but I guess people who like it might enjoy. My husband loved it tho!
Glad your husband enjoyed it! Tofu can be a bit weird for some, but it’s really versatile if you season it right.
Tofu??? Who eats that? Just give me meat!
This is surprisingly good for a weeknight meal. I followed it pretty much as written, but I added a splash of rice vinegar at the end for brightness.
Seems kinda healthy, but I prefer meat in my stir fries. Not really my thing.
Nah, tofu just ain’t the same as meat. This recipe sounds weird to me. I think I’ll stick with beef stir fry.
I totally get that! Meat does add a different flavor. Have you tried adding chicken or shrimp instead?
I was skeptical at first about the cornstarch, but it really added a nice texture to the tofu! Will make again.
Tofu? Really? I don’t understand how y’all can eat that stuff. No thanks!
I’m glad to hear that the cornstarch made a difference! I usually just skip it, but I might give it a try now.
Where’s the spice? Needs more kick, I added jalapeños but it still dulled my taste buds.
I tried it, but the tofu just wouldn’t get crispy. Maybe I did something wrong? 🤔
Tofu?? Nah, I don’t think this is for me. Not sure how people eat it!
delish! quick and easy, will be making again!
I’m glad you liked it! It’s super versatile too. Did you add any other veggies?
This is just another vegetarian recipe. Meat is better. No thanks!
The sesame oil is the key! It made the whole thing taste so good.
Quick and easy recipe! My kids even ate the veggies! 🌟
That’s awesome! Getting kids to eat veggies is a win! 🎉 What veggies did they like the most?
Quick recipes are great, but can tofu even taste good? I dunno. 🤔
Not bad, but cornstarch in soy sauce can get clumpy if your bowl is too crowded. Still edible though!
Good point! I’ve had that happen when I dump everything in at once. Now I mix the cornstarch really smooth and coat the tofu in batches if the bowl’s crowded.
Super easy and quick! I added some mushrooms since I had them, and it turned out great. Thanks!
Not gonna lie, 3-4 minutes each side for golden tofu seems optimistic. Mine stuck a bit and looked more “toasted” than golden. Flavor was fine.
Yeah I agree—3-4 min per side depends a LOT on pan temp and tofu moisture. If it’s not super dry, it’ll steam and stick before it browns.
I just used whatever veggies I had, turned out good! Thanks for the recipe.
This was okay, but I’m not a fan of sesame seeds on top—tastes kinda nutty in a way I don’t like. Maybe leave them out and it’s better.
This was ok but I think I overcooked the veggies. Not bad for a first try but could use improvement.
I didn’t have ginger, so I used ground ginger instead and it still worked well! I love flexible recipes.
Not gonna lie, I didn’t measure salt/pepper and just winged it. Still came out great. Sesame + soy is hard to mess up.
Quick and easy! I added some extra veggies from the fridge, turned out great!