Go Back

Garlic Sesame Tofu Stir-Fry - Fast, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz (400 g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (for coating tofu)
  • 2–3 tbsp neutral oil (avocado, canola, or peanut)
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli florets, bell pepper strips, snap peas, carrots)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced (optional but recommended)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • 1–2 tsp sesame seeds, toasted
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth (or water)
  • 1–2 tsp chili-garlic sauce or sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (to thicken)

Method
 

  1. Press the tofu: Drain the tofu and press it between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel with a weighted plate for 10–15 minutes. This helps it crisp up.
  2. Cut and coat: Cut the tofu into 3/4-inch cubes. Toss gently with 2 tbsp cornstarch and a pinch of salt until coated.
  3. Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, vegetable broth, chili-garlic sauce, and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Set aside.
  4. Cook the tofu: Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu in a single layer. Cook 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp on all sides. Transfer to a plate.
  5. Stir-fry vegetables: Add another 1 tbsp oil if needed. Add the white parts of green onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add vegetables and a pinch of salt. Stir-fry 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
  6. Sauce it up: Return tofu to the pan. Give the sauce a quick whisk and pour it in. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything.
  7. Finish: Turn off the heat. Stir in toasted sesame oil and most of the sesame seeds. Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, or heat as needed.
  8. Serve: Spoon over rice or toss with noodles. Top with the green parts of green onion and remaining sesame seeds.