Name: Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 packs firm tofu; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tbsp nutritrional yeast; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 ½ tbsp cornstarch; salt; 2 heads broccoli; 1 red onion; 3 cloves garlic; 6 oz snow peas; salt; pepper; rice; ¼ green onion; ¼ tsp fresh cilantro; chili garlic sauce

Discover a delicious blend of flavors and textures with this crispy tofu stir fry. This dish pairs golden brown tofu with vibrant, crunchy vegetables to create a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick healthy lunch.

Photos of Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe

If you don't usually cook with nutritional yeast, cornstarch, or chili garlic sauce, these are key ingredients to pick up at the supermarket. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, nutty flavor to the tofu, while cornstarch helps achieve that perfect crispy texture. Chili garlic sauce will add a spicy kick to your dish.

Ingredients For Crispy Tofu Stir Fry

Firm tofu: Provides a great source of plant-based protein and a chewy texture.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish.

Olive oil: Used to cook the vegetables and tofu, adding richness.

Red pepper flakes: Brings a hint of heat to the recipe.

Nutritional yeast: Enhances the tofu with a cheesy and nutty flavor.

Garlic powder: Adds a concentrated garlic flavor to the tofu.

Cornstarch: Helps in making the tofu crispy.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Broccoli: Adds crunch and a dose of vitamins.

Red onion: Provides a sweet and slightly sharp flavor.

Garlic: Infuses the vegetables with a robust, aromatic flavor.

Snow peas: Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch.

Pepper: Adds a mild heat and enhances the other flavors.

Rice: Serves as the base for the stir-fry, offering a neutral flavor to balance the dish.

Green onion: Adds a fresh, sharp taste when used as a garnish.

Cilantro: Lends a fresh, citrusy note to finish the dish.

Chili garlic sauce: Provides a spicy and tangy flavor to the stir fry.

One reader, Fifi Mcmullen says:

This crispy tofu stir fry recipe is a game-changer! The tofu turns out perfectly golden and crispy, while the veggies add a fresh crunch. The flavors blend beautifully, and the chili garlic sauce gives it a delightful kick. A must-try for a delicious and healthy meal!

Fifi Mcmullen

Key Techniques for Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe

How to press tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture by placing it between paper towels and setting a heavy object on top for about 15-30 minutes. How to bake tofu: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F, then bake the tofu for 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. How to cook red onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add the red onion, and cook until translucent. How to stir-fry vegetables: Add garlic, snow peas, and broccoli to the cooked red onion, and stir-fry until the vegetables are tender. How to plate: Serve rice and stir-fried vegetables, topped with crispy tofu, green onions, cilantro, and chili garlic sauce.

How To Make Crispy Tofu Stir Fry

Whip up a quick and healthy meal with our Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe. Serve crispy baked tofu with rice and stir-fried veggies in this tasty recipe.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 18 minutes

Total: 28 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2packsfirm tofu
3tbspsoy sauce
1tbspolive oil
1tspred pepper flakes
1tbspnutritrional yeast
½tspgarlic powder
1 ½tbspcornstarch
saltto taste
2headsbroccolicut and blanched
1red onionsliced
3clovesgarlicminced
6ozsnow peassplit
saltto taste
pepperto taste
ricefor serving
¼green onionfor serving
¼tspfresh cilantrofor serving
chili garlic saucefor serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Combine tofu, soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, red pepper flakes, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, corn starch, and salt.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cook red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until translucent. To this, add garlic, snow peas, and broccoli. Season to taste.
Plate by serving rice and stir-fried vegetables, topped with crispy tofu and pickled cabbage, green onions, cilantro, and chili garlic sauce.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 454.90kcal
Fat: 19.13g
Saturated Fat: 2.73g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.78g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.55g
Carbohydrates: 44.69g
Fiber: 14.84g
Sugar: 8.39g
Protein: 38.30g
Sodium: 1329.36mg
Calcium: 1292.93mg
Potassium: 1599.16mg
Iron: 8.03mg
Vitamin A: 120.76µg
Vitamin C: 300.28mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe

For an extra crispy texture, press the tofu for at least 30 minutes before marinating. This removes excess moisture, allowing the cornstarch and nutritional yeast mixture to adhere better and create a crunchier crust when baked.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Press tofu: Press tofu ahead of time to remove excess water, making it easier to achieve a crispy texture.

Pre-cut vegetables: Chop broccoli, red onion, and garlic in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-cooked rice: Save time by using pre-cooked rice or microwaveable rice packets.

Batch cook tofu: Bake extra tofu and store it for future meals to save time on busy days.

One-pan method: Cook the vegetables in the same pan used for the tofu to minimize cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe

firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firmer texture and a nutty flavor that works well in stir-fries.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative with a similar umami flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements Asian dishes.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha provides a similar heat level with added garlic and vinegar notes.
nutritional yeast - Substitute with grated parmesan: Grated parmesan offers a similar umami and cheesy flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a similar depth of flavor in the absence of garlic.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent and is gluten-free.
broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be used in the same way as broccoli.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar flavor profile and can be used interchangeably.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can replace garlic.
snow peas - Substitute with sugar snap peas: Sugar snap peas have a similar crunch and sweetness.
rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a protein-rich alternative that provides a similar texture.
green onion - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can replace cilantro.
chili garlic sauce - Substitute with sambal oelek: Sambal oelek has a similar spicy and garlicky profile.

Presenting Your Crispy Tofu Stir Fry

Use a pristine white plate: The clean, white background will make the vibrant colors of the crispy tofu, stir-fried vegetables, and chili garlic sauce pop, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Create a base layer with rice: Form a neat, compact mound of rice in the center of the plate. Use a small bowl or mold to shape it perfectly.
Arrange the stir-fried vegetables artfully: Place the broccoli, red onion, and snow peas around the rice in a balanced, aesthetically pleasing manner. Ensure the vegetables are evenly distributed and not overcrowded.
Top with crispy tofu: Arrange the crispy tofu pieces on top of the rice and vegetables. Stack them slightly to add height and dimension to the dish.
Garnish with green onions and cilantro: Finely chop the green onions and cilantro, then sprinkle them delicately over the tofu and vegetables. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a burst of color.
Drizzle with chili garlic sauce: Lightly drizzle the chili garlic sauce over the entire dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. The sauce should enhance the flavors without overwhelming the presentation.
Add a side of pickled cabbage: Place a small portion of pickled cabbage on the side of the plate. This adds a contrasting color and a tangy flavor that complements the main dish.
Finish with a touch of elegance: Use a small brush to add a few artistic strokes of soy sauce or olive oil around the edge of the plate. This final touch adds sophistication and a professional flair.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stir Fry

Oven: Used to bake the tofu until it becomes golden brown and crispy.
Baking sheet: To place the tofu on while baking in the oven.
Mixing bowl: For combining tofu with soy sauce, olive oil, red pepper flakes, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, cornstarch, and salt.
Knife: To chop the red onion, garlic, broccoli, green onion, and cilantro.
Cutting board: A surface to safely chop all the vegetables and herbs.
Skillet: Used to cook the red onion, garlic, snow peas, and broccoli.
Spatula: For stirring and cooking the vegetables in the skillet.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the soy sauce, olive oil, red pepper flakes, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and cornstarch.
Measuring cups: To measure the rice and any other ingredients that require precise amounts.
Rice cooker: To cook the rice perfectly.
Serving plates: For plating the rice, stir-fried vegetables, and crispy tofu.
Tongs: To handle the tofu and vegetables while cooking and plating.
Mixing spoon: For mixing the tofu with the seasoning ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Your Stir Fry

Let the crispy tofu stir fry cool down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to store the tofu and vegetables separately, place them in different airtight containers before refrigerating. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
For longer storage, you can freeze the crispy tofu stir fry. Transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
When freezing, it's best to store the tofu, vegetables, and rice in separate containers. This allows you to reheat each component individually, ensuring the best texture and taste.
Tip: Label the containers with the date of freezing so you can keep track of how long they've been stored. The crispy tofu stir fry can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen stir fry, first, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat the tofu in the oven or on the stovetop to restore its crispiness. The vegetables can be reheated in a pan or microwave, and the rice can be steamed or microwaved with a damp paper towel covering it.
Note: The tofu may lose some of its crispiness after being frozen and reheated, but it will still taste delicious.

Reheating Leftover Crispy Tofu Stir Fry

The best way to reheat leftover crispy tofu stir fry is in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the tofu while quickly reheating the vegetables and rice.
Add a small amount of oil to the pan and heat until shimmering. Add the leftover stir fry and toss frequently, ensuring that all components are evenly heated through. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
If you prefer a softer texture for your tofu, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to the pan and cover it with a lid. This will create steam and help soften the tofu while reheating the dish.
For a quick and convenient option, you can also reheat the crispy tofu stir fry in the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through. Keep in mind that the tofu may lose some of its crispiness using this method.
If you have leftover rice that has dried out a bit, sprinkle a small amount of water over it before reheating. This will help rehydrate the rice and restore its fluffy texture.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover stir fry, consider garnishing it with some freshly chopped green onions, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice before serving. This will brighten up the flavors and make the dish feel new again.

Interesting Fact About Crispy Tofu Stir Fry

A random fact about this recipe is that nutritional yeast is often used in vegan dishes to add a cheesy flavor. It is rich in B-vitamins and provides a savory, umami taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of the stir fry.

Is Making Stir Fry at Home Cost-Effective?

This crispy tofu stir fry recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like firm tofu, broccoli, red onion, and snow peas are affordable and readily available. The use of soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch adds flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is This Stir Fry Recipe Healthy?

This crispy tofu stir fry recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. Here's a breakdown of the health aspects:

Positives:

Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein and contains beneficial compounds like isoflavones
The recipe includes a variety of vegetables, such as broccoli, red onion, garlic, and snow peas, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Using olive oil for cooking adds healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish
The addition of nutritional yeast provides a boost of B vitamins and a cheesy flavor without the use of dairy

Negatives:

The recipe calls for soy sauce, which can be high in sodium, potentially leading to increased blood pressure in some individuals
The amount of oil used for cooking the tofu and vegetables may be a bit high, increasing the overall calorie count of the dish

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
Reduce the amount of oil used in cooking the tofu and vegetables, or use a cooking spray to minimize added fats
Include a wider variety of colorful vegetables to increase the nutrient density of the stir fry, such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms
Use brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
Experiment with different spices and herbs to add flavor without relying on salt, such as ginger, turmeric, or basil
Consider serving the stir fry with a side of fermented vegetables, like kimchi or sauerkraut, to promote gut health and add beneficial probiotics to the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Crispy Tofu Dish

This crispy tofu stir fry recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The tofu, baked to golden perfection, adds a satisfying crunch, while the combination of soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and red pepper flakes infuses it with umami and a hint of heat. The stir-fried vegetables, including broccoli, red onion, and snow peas, provide a fresh and vibrant contrast. Topping it all off with green onions, cilantro, and chili garlic sauce elevates the dish with a burst of freshness and spice. Overall, it's a well-balanced, nutritious, and flavorful meal that is sure to please.

Enhance Your Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Miso Soup: Imagine a warm bowl of miso soup to complement your crispy tofu stir fry. The umami-rich broth, infused with seaweed and tofu, creates a harmonious balance with the savory and spicy notes of the main dish. It's like a gentle hug for your taste buds, bringing a touch of Japanese cuisine to your table.

Mango Avocado Salad: Brighten up your meal with a refreshing mango avocado salad. The creamy avocado and juicy mango pieces, tossed with a zesty lime dressing, offer a delightful contrast to the crispy tofu. This vibrant salad adds a burst of color and a tropical twist, making your dining experience feel like a sunny getaway.

Sesame Ginger Noodles: Elevate your stir fry with a side of sesame ginger noodles. These silky noodles, coated in a fragrant ginger and sesame sauce, provide a rich and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the tofu. The subtle heat from the ginger and the crunch of sesame seeds make this dish an irresistible companion.

Coconut Rice: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with coconut rice. The creamy, slightly sweet coconut milk infuses the rice with a luscious flavor that complements the savory stir fry. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes, making your meal feel like a special occasion.

Spicy Cucumber Salad: Add a refreshing kick with a spicy cucumber salad. Crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced and tossed in a tangy vinegar and chili dressing, bring a cooling yet fiery element to your plate. This salad not only enhances the flavors of the main dish but also adds a crunchy, invigorating texture.

Similar Recipes to Crispy Tofu Stir Fry

Spicy Szechuan Eggplant: Dive into the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this tantalizing eggplant dish. The eggplant is stir-fried to perfection and coated in a spicy, savory sauce that will leave your taste buds tingling. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal.

Sweet And Sour Tempeh: Experience a delightful balance of flavors with this sweet and sour tempeh recipe. The tempeh is marinated and cooked until crispy, then tossed in a tangy sauce with pineapple, bell peppers, and onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Garlic Ginger Bok Choy: Savor the simplicity of Asian greens with this garlic ginger bok choy recipe. The bok choy is stir-fried with fragrant garlic and ginger, then finished with a splash of soy sauce. A perfect side dish to complement any main course.

Thai Basil Chicken: Transport your taste buds to Thailand with this aromatic Thai basil chicken. Tender pieces of chicken are stir-fried with fresh basil, chilies, and garlic. Serve it with jasmine rice for an authentic experience.

Miso Glazed Carrots: Elevate your vegetable game with these miso glazed carrots. The carrots are roasted until tender and caramelized, then tossed in a savory miso glaze. A perfect side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts for Crispy Tofu Stir Fry

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and finely chopped herbs. The breadcrumbs provide a crunchy contrast to the tender mushrooms, while the cheese melts into a gooey, flavorful filling. A touch of garlic and a sprinkle of parsley elevate the dish to gourmet status. Serve these warm, and watch them disappear in no time.**

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of crusty bread, toasted to perfection. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The tomatoes should be ripe and juicy, bursting with flavor. A hint of garlic and a splash of olive oil bring everything together. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a burst of freshness in every bite.**

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich molten dessert that oozes with decadent chocolate. This treat features a warm, gooey center encased in a delicate, cake-like exterior. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of luxury. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries to elevate the presentation. Perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight in the tangy zest of citrus with this classic dessert. A buttery crust cradles a luscious lemon filling topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The contrast between the tart lemon and the sweet, airy meringue creates a harmonious balance of flavors. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to any meal. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of lavender or basil for an unexpected flavor profile.

Why trust this Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe:

This recipe combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful meal every time. The crispy tofu provides a satisfying crunch, while the stir-fried vegetables offer a fresh and vibrant taste. The use of soy sauce and chili garlic sauce adds a savory and spicy kick, making each bite irresistible. Additionally, the inclusion of nutritional yeast enhances the umami flavor, making this dish both delicious and nutritious. Trust this recipe for a wholesome and flavorful dining experience.

Share your thoughts on this Crispy Tofu Stir Fry Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I press tofu to remove excess water?

I usually wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object, like a cast-iron skillet, on top for about 20-30 minutes. This helps remove the excess water and makes the tofu crispier when baked.

Can I use a different vegetable instead of broccoli?

Absolutely! You can substitute broccoli with other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What type of rice works best with this stir fry?

I prefer using jasmine or basmati rice because they have a nice aroma and texture. However, you can use any type of rice you like, including brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier option.

How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes and chili garlic sauce?

The recipe has a moderate level of spiciness. If you prefer it milder, you can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes and chili garlic sauce. Conversely, if you like it spicier, feel free to add more!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tofu and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just reheat everything and assemble the dish. The tofu might lose a bit of its crispiness, but it will still taste great.