This vibrant tofu stir fry transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, protein-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Crispy cubes of extra-firm tofu are paired with nutrient-rich spinach and a punchy garlic-ginger-chili sauce, creating a dish that is both satisfying and health-conscious.
High in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals, this stir fry supports energy, digestion, and muscle maintenance.
The sesame oil and seeds provide heart-healthy fats, while the low-sodium soy sauce keeps sodium levels in check.
Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable—whether served over brown rice, noodles, or quinoa—this dish is an ideal choice for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or a balanced lunch.
Its combination of ease, taste, and nutrition makes it a versatile go-to for anyone seeking wholesome, flavorful meals without fuss.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Nonstick Skillet or Wok
Essential for evenly browning tofu and quickly sautéing vegetables. Its high heat capability ensures crisp tofu while keeping veggies tender. A versatile pan for stir fries, omelets, and sautéed dishes.
Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife
Allows precise chopping of tofu, garlic, green onions, and spinach. Makes prep faster, safer, and ensures consistent cooking results.
Paper Towels
Vital for pressing tofu to remove excess moisture, guaranteeing a golden, crispy exterior. Useful for any recipe where moisture control is key, from frying to baking.
Measuring Spoons & Cups
Ensure accurate seasoning and sauce proportions for balanced flavor. Indispensable for consistent cooking outcomes and baking reliability.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Perfect for gently turning tofu and stirring vegetables without breaking delicate pieces. Ideal for sauces, stir fries, and general sautéing.
Flavorful Tofu Stir Fry
Equipment
- Large nonstick skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- Paper towels (double layer for pressing tofu)
- Measuring spoons & cups
- 1 Spatula or wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 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 (≈1 heaping tbsp)
- 1 small bunch green onions finely chopped, divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
- 1 –2 teaspoons fresh chili paste sambal oelek or ¼–½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 10 ounces baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
For Serving:
- Brown rice quinoa, or noodles
Instructions
- Prep and Press Tofu: Drain the extra-firm tofu and wrap each block in a double layer of paper towels. Gently press down on the tofu to squeeze out excess moisture, which is essential for achieving a golden, crispy exterior during cooking. Once pressed, cut the tofu into ¾-inch cubes, ensuring uniform size so each piece cooks evenly.
- Heat Pan and Cook Tofu: Place a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the canola or grapeseed oil. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer, then drizzle with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Allow the tofu to cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes on each side to develop a golden crust, stirring occasionally to brown all sides evenly, for about 8–10 minutes.
- Aromatic Flavor Base: Reduce the heat slightly and add minced garlic, two-thirds of the green onions, minced fresh ginger, and chili paste (or red pepper flakes) to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until the aromatics release their fragrance and lightly coat the tofu, creating a flavor-packed base for the vegetables.
- Wilt the Spinach: Gradually add the baby spinach in large handfuls, stirring gently to help it wilt and create space for additional leaves. Continue adding spinach until all of it is incorporated, allowing it to cook down to a bright, tender texture without overcooking or turning mushy.
- Finish with Sesame and Seasoning: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the tofu and spinach, then drizzle with sesame oil to add a nutty, fragrant finish. Stir gently to combine, then remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with the reserved green onions and taste for seasoning, adding extra soy sauce or chili paste if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the stir fry to serving plates and pair with your choice of brown rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal. Serve immediately while hot, savoring the contrast of crispy tofu, tender vegetables, and rich, flavorful sauce, making it a perfect dish for everyday dinners or meal prep
Notes
- Always use extra-firm tofu to ensure a crispy texture; softer varieties will fall apart during cooking.
- Pat tofu dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture for golden browning.
- Canola or grapeseed oil is preferred for high-heat sautéing; avoid olive oil as it burns easily.
- Add spinach gradually to allow it to wilt evenly and prevent overcrowding the pan.
- Adjust chili paste or flakes to taste depending on your heat preference.
- For more vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers, cook them separately until tender-crisp before combining with tofu.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
Chef’s Secrets: Expert Tips For Crispy Tofu
Achieving perfectly crispy tofu is all about preparation and heat control. Pressing the tofu to remove excess water is crucial for creating a golden crust.
Cooking the tofu in a single layer without crowding the pan ensures even browning.
Resist the urge to stir constantly; allowing the tofu to sit on one side for a few minutes helps it develop a rich, caramelized exterior.
Adding aromatics like garlic, ginger, and chili after the tofu has browned enhances flavor without burning these delicate ingredients.
For extra crunch, consider lightly dusting tofu cubes with cornstarch before cooking—it creates a restaurant-quality crispiness.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Pairing Ideas
This tofu stir fry pairs beautifully with a variety of grains or noodles.
Serve it over brown rice or quinoa for a hearty, fiber-rich meal, or toss with soba or rice noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.
Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for visual appeal and added flavor.
It also works wonderfully as a filling for lettuce wraps or grain bowls.
A drizzle of additional soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar can brighten the dish just before serving.
The versatility makes it a perfect centerpiece for casual weeknight dinners or meal prep lunches.
Storage Tips: Keep Your Stir Fry Fresh
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
When reheating, do so gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain tofu crispiness as much as possible.
For long-term storage, this dish freezes well, though spinach may become slightly softer upon thawing—this doesn’t affect flavor and is still delicious.
Separate the grain (rice or noodles) from the stir fry when freezing to maintain the best texture. Always taste and adjust seasonings after reheating for optimal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions: Tofu Stir Fry Tips
1. Can I use firm tofu instead of extra-firm?
While firm tofu works, extra-firm is best for crispiness. Press it thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible.
2. Can I substitute spinach with other vegetables?
Yes! Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy are excellent alternatives. Just cook firmer veggies slightly longer before adding tofu.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
The heat depends on the chili paste or red pepper flakes used. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the tofu and vegetables separately, store in airtight containers, and combine when ready to serve.
5. How do I keep tofu crispy when reheating?
Reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat rather than microwaving. A quick sauté restores some of the original crispiness.
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.
