This Tofu Stir Fry is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that elevates everyday cooking with its combination of crispy tofu and fresh, leafy greens.
What makes it special is its quick, flavorful garlic sesame sauce that complements the natural nuttiness of tofu and the bright freshness of spinach and green onions.
High in plant-based protein, low in saturated fat, and fiber-rich from the vegetables, it supports a balanced diet and sustained energy.
Toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil provide heart-healthy fats, while the chili paste adds a gentle kick that awakens the palate.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is quick, easy, and satisfying, making it an excellent option for anyone seeking a wholesome, flavorful, and colorful plant-based meal.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Nonstick Skillet or Wok
Essential for sautéing tofu and vegetables evenly without sticking. Its versatile design allows for stir-frying, searing, and cooking a wide variety of meals quickly and efficiently.
Paper Towels
Used to press and dry tofu thoroughly, removing excess moisture for optimal crispiness. They’re a kitchen staple for cleaning, draining, and prepping ingredients.
Measuring Spoons
Ensure precise seasoning and sauce ratios for consistent taste. Perfect for baking, marinating, and everyday cooking accuracy.
Cutting Board
Provides a safe, sturdy surface to chop tofu, garlic, ginger, and vegetables efficiently. A high-quality board prevents knife slips and protects countertops.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Ideal for gently stirring tofu and vegetables while preserving their texture. Its heat-resistant design makes it useful for sautéing, folding, and mixing ingredients in a variety of dishes.
25-Minute Lentil and Sweet Potato Grain Bowl
Equipment
- 1 Large nonstick skillet or wok
- Paper towels for pressing tofu
- Measuring Spoons
- Cutting board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Ingredients
Tofu & Seasoning:
- 2 14-ounce packages extra-firm tofu
- 1 tablespoon canola or grapeseed oil
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce divided
- 3 large garlic cloves minced (about 1 heaping tablespoon)
- 1 small bunch green onions finely chopped, divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
- 1 –2 teaspoons chili paste sambal oelek or 1/4–1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Vegetables & Garnish:
- 10 ounces baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- For Serving:
- Cooked brown rice cauliflower rice, soba noodles, rice noodles, or quinoa
Instructions
- Preparing the Tofu: Start by draining the tofu and wrapping each block in a double layer of paper towels. Gently press down on the tofu to remove as much moisture as possible, which ensures crispiness when cooking. Once dried, cut the tofu into uniform 3/4-inch cubes, so they cook evenly and develop a golden crust.
- Heating the Pan: Place a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat and pour in the canola or grapeseed oil. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking, which is essential for sautéing tofu without sticking or burning. Proper pan heat ensures even browning and a crisp exterior.
- Cooking the Tofu: Add the tofu cubes to the hot pan carefully, as the oil may splatter slightly. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of soy sauce over the tofu and let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two on each side to develop a golden color. Stir occasionally, turning the cubes to ensure all sides are evenly browned and crisp, approximately 8–10 minutes total.
- Adding Aromatics: Once the tofu is golden, add the minced garlic, two-thirds of the chopped green onions, minced ginger, and chili paste (or red pepper flakes). Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir gently to combine. Cook for about 1 minute, until the mixture becomes fragrant and the tofu absorbs the flavors.
- Incorporating Spinach: Gradually add the baby spinach to the pan in handfuls, stirring gently to allow it to wilt evenly. Continue adding spinach until all is incorporated, even if it seems like a lot at first, because it will reduce significantly in volume. Make sure the tofu and spinach are well mixed and coated with the aromatic sauce.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in the toasted sesame seeds and drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry, mixing carefully to evenly distribute flavor. Remove the pan from heat, then sprinkle the reserved green onions on top for freshness and color.
- Serving the Dish: Serve the stir fry immediately over prepared brown rice, cauliflower rice, soba noodles, rice noodles, or quinoa. Add extra soy sauce or chili paste to taste for a customized flavor and enjoy a warm, satisfying, and nutrient-packed meal.
Notes
- Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess water; this step ensures crisp, golden cubes rather than soggy pieces.
- Adjust the chili paste or red pepper flakes to control the level of heat according to your preference.
- Use a large skillet or wok to prevent overcrowding, which helps tofu brown evenly and vegetables cook properly.
- Gradually add spinach in batches; it may seem like a lot, but it wilts down significantly.
- Toasted sesame seeds enhance flavor and add a subtle crunch, while sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma.
- Serve immediately after cooking to maintain tofu crispiness and vibrant vegetable texture.
Chef’s Secrets for Crispy Tofu Excellence
The key to the perfect tofu stir fry lies in preparation and layering flavors.
Pressing tofu removes moisture, allowing it to crisp up beautifully during cooking.
Browning it on one side before stirring creates a golden exterior that contrasts with the tender interior.
Adding aromatics like garlic, ginger, and green onions toward the end prevents them from burning while releasing their natural fragrance.
Gradually wilting the spinach ensures even cooking without turning it soggy.
Finally, finishing with sesame oil and toasted seeds intensifies flavor and aroma, transforming a simple stir fry into a restaurant-quality dish.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
This tofu stir fry pairs wonderfully with a variety of healthy bases.
Serve over warm brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or enjoy with soba noodles, rice noodles, or quinoa for added protein and texture.
Garnish with extra green onions, chili flakes, or a drizzle of soy sauce for an elevated flavor.
It also works well as a meal prep option—store portions in airtight containers and reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness, making it perfect for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
Storage Tips to Keep Freshness
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat to preserve tofu crispiness and keep the vegetables vibrant.
Avoid microwaving directly, which may make tofu soft and vegetables wilted.
The sauce can be stored separately in a small container for up to a week, allowing you to quickly refresh tofu and greens for another meal.
For longer storage, tofu cubes can be cooked and frozen before adding vegetables, then reheated with fresh greens when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipe
1. Can I use firm or silken tofu?
Extra-firm tofu is essential for achieving a crispy texture. Firm tofu may work but will be less crisp, while silken tofu is too soft and will break apart during cooking.
2. Can I make this stir fry spicier?
Yes! Increase chili paste, add more red pepper flakes, or include a splash of sriracha to adjust heat to your taste.
3. Can I swap spinach for other vegetables?
Absolutely. Baby kale, bok choy, or broccoli florets are excellent alternatives. Just adjust cooking times so all vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This makes it a safe, protein-rich option for those avoiding gluten.
5. Can I prepare this in advance for meal prep?
Yes, but store tofu and vegetables separately if possible. Reheat in a skillet to restore crispiness, and add fresh greens or sauce when serving for optimal texture and flavor.
This recipe is inspired by wellplated and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
