Tofu With Vegetables Recipe

Sizzling Tofu with Vegetables Recipe: A Colorful Family Delight

Every home cook finds delight in crafting a nutritious tofu with vegetables dish that sparks conversation around the dinner table.

Friends often ask about my secret for such vibrant flavors.

Crisp vegetables and tender protein create a perfect balance on your plate.

Seasonal produce makes this recipe shine with minimal effort.

Global culinary traditions inspire each colorful combination of ingredients.

Fresh herbs and simple seasonings elevate the entire meal.

You can make this delicious plate in less than thirty minutes, promising a satisfying experience that nourishes both body and soul.

Tofu Veggie Mix That’s Light and Filling

  • Speedy Weeknight Wonder: Whip up this tofu vegetable stir-fry in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy families craving a quick, nutritious meal.
  • Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with protein from tofu and a rainbow of vegetables, this dish delivers essential nutrients and vibrant flavors in every bite.
  • Customizable Cuisine: Easily swap vegetables based on what's in your fridge, adjust spice levels, or switch proteins to match your dietary preferences and taste buds.
  • Minimal Cleanup Magic: Using a single pan means less dishwashing and more time enjoying your delicious, hassle-free meal with loved ones.

Tofu with Vegetables Ingredient List

Main Protein:
  • Tofu: A versatile plant-based protein that absorbs flavors well, best when firm or extra-firm for better texture and holding shape.
Vegetables:
  • Bell Peppers, Broccoli, Carrots, Snap Peas: Colorful mix providing crunch, nutrition, and visual appeal, choose fresh and crisp vegetables.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic, Ginger: Classic Asian flavor boosters that add depth and warmth to the dish.
  • Soy Sauce, Hoisin Sauce: Savory and sweet sauces that enhance overall flavor profile.
Cooking Components:
  • Cornstarch: Optional coating for extra crispy tofu texture.
  • Vegetable Oil: Neutral cooking oil for sautéing and browning ingredients.
Garnish and Optional Serving:
  • Sesame Seeds: Adds nutty flavor and slight crunch.
  • Green Onions: Fresh, mild onion flavor for garnish.
  • Rice or Noodles: Optional base for serving the tofu and vegetables.

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry Instructions

Step 1: Prep The Tofu

Remove tofu from packaging and pat dry with paper towels.

Press out excess moisture by wrapping tofu in clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy skillet on top for 15 minutes.

Cut tofu into bite-sized cubes.

Optional: Lightly dust cubes with cornstarch for extra crispy exterior.

Step 2: Sizzle The Tofu

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully place tofu cubes into hot pan.

Cook each side until golden brown and crispy, rotating cubes every 2-3 minutes.

This process takes about 8-10 minutes total.

Transfer tofu to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Chop Fresh Vegetables

Slice bell peppers into thin strips.

Chop broccoli into small florets.

Dice carrots into thin rounds.

Trim snap peas’ edges.

Keep vegetables roughly similar in size for even cooking.

Step 4: Create Vibrant Stir-Fry

In the same skillet, add a splash of oil.

Toss in prepared vegetables:
  • Bell peppers
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Snap peas

Stir-fry vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they’re bright and slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Build Delicious Flavors

Add aromatic ingredients to enhance taste:
  • Minced garlic
  • Freshly grated ginger
  • Soy sauce
  • Hoisin sauce

Stir everything together, ensuring vegetables are well-coated.

Return tofu cubes to skillet and gently mix.

Step 6: Finish And Serve

Sprinkle with:
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Plate over steamed rice or wheat noodles.

Serve immediately while hot and fresh.

Tofu Stir Fry Tips That Actually Taste Amazing

  • Pat tofu completely dry before coating with cornstarch to ensure a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior.
  • Add vegetables in order of cooking time, starting with harder veggies like carrots and ending with quick-cooking snap peas to maintain crisp texture.
  • Let tofu sit in the sauce for a minute after adding to allow it to absorb all the delicious garlic, ginger, and soy sauce flavors.
  • Swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version or use coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
  • Cook extra tofu and vegetables to create quick lunches or next-day stir-fries, saving time and reducing kitchen cleanup.

Store Tofu with Vegetables Leftovers

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Keep the tofu and vegetables separate from rice or noodles to maintain texture.
  • Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking.
  • Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure uniform warming. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent rubbery texture.
  • Consume within 2 days for the best taste and texture, as tofu and vegetables can lose their crisp quality over time.

Tofu with Vegetables Serving Ideas

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the light, fresh flavors of tofu and vegetables, cutting through the soy and hoisin sauce with bright acidity.
  • Match with Green Tea: Jasmine or sencha green tea enhances the dish's Asian-inspired profile, offering a clean, subtle backdrop that refreshes the palate between bites.
  • Serve with Steamed Brown Rice: Nutty, wholesome brown rice provides a perfect base that absorbs the savory sauce and adds nutritional balance to the vegetable-tofu mixture.
  • Add Pickled Vegetable Side: Quick cucumber or daikon radish pickles bring tangy contrast, cutting through the rich sauce and adding a zesty, crunchy element to the meal.

Tofu and Veggies in Simple Adaptations

  • Protein Power Swap: Replace tofu with grilled chicken or tempeh for a different protein source while maintaining the vegetable stir-fry method.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure hoisin sauce is gluten-free. Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • Spicy Lover's Version: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for extra heat. Include jalapeños or red pepper flakes during vegetable sautéing for more kick.
  • Vegan Nutrient Boost: Enhance the dish with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor, add edamame for extra protein, and swap hoisin for a homemade plant-based sauce using dates and soy sauce.

FAQs

  • How do I make my tofu crispy?

Press the tofu with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Toss the cubed tofu in cornstarch before frying, which creates a crispy golden exterior when cooked in hot oil.

  • Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, cauliflower, or green beans. Just ensure they’re cut to similar sizes for even cooking.

  • Is this dish protein-packed?

Yes, tofu is an excellent plant-based protein source. One serving typically contains about 8-10 grams of protein, making it a nutritious meal option for vegetarians and vegans.

  • What if I'm gluten-sensitive?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Check that your hoisin sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands contain wheat products.

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Tofu With Vegetables Recipe

Tofu With Vegetables Recipe


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4.5 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling tofu with vegetables brings Mediterranean zest to your dinner table. Crisp vegetable medley and golden tofu cubes dance with herbal seasonings, promising a light yet satisfying meal that delights your palate.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 block (14 ounces/396 grams) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for crispy tofu, optional)

Vegetables:

  • 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1/2 cup snap peas or zucchini, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Garnishes:

  • 2 tablespoons oil (sesame or vegetable)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Carefully extract moisture from tofu using a clean kitchen towel or press, then transform into uniform cubes. Delicately coat with cornstarch for enhanced exterior texture.
  2. Warm a skillet with oil, creating a sizzling surface. Gently introduce tofu cubes, allowing each side to develop a rich golden-brown crust through consistent rotation.
  3. Utilize the same pan’s residual heat and minimal additional oil. Rapidly tumble chopped bell peppers, broccoli florets, julienned carrots, and crisp snap peas, maintaining vibrant colors and slight crunch.
  4. Infuse the vegetable medley with aromatic minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cascade soy sauce and hoisin sauce, creating a glossy, flavor-packed coating. Reintroduce tofu cubes, ensuring thorough integration of seasonings.
  5. Elevate the dish’s visual and flavor profile by scattering toasted sesame seeds and finely sliced green onion rings. Present atop steamed rice or tender noodles for a complete, nourishing meal.

Notes

  • Maximize tofu’s crispiness by thoroughly pressing out moisture, which helps achieve a perfect golden-brown exterior without excess water.
  • Customize vegetable mix based on seasonal availability or personal preference, allowing flexibility in creating your unique stir-fry.
  • Boost protein content by adding extra firm tofu or incorporating additional plant-based protein sources like edamame or tempeh.
  • Reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce and controlling additional salt, making the dish heart-friendly and diet-conscious.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

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