Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Garlic-Ginger Sauce and Veggies
A Stir-Fry That Packs a Punch
Fast, fresh, and full of flavour, this Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry is the perfect weeknight dinner. Crispy golden tofu, crunchy veggies, and a bold, garlicky sauce come together in just 30 minutes.
The ginger-garlic-soy sauce combo creates a savoury, slightly spicy, umami-rich glaze that coats every bite. Paired with rice or noodles, this dish is a winner for meal prep, takeout cravings, or a quick, wholesome meal.
Ingredients (Serves 2-3)
For the Tofu:
1 block firm tofu, pressed and cut into 2 cm cubes
2 tbsp cornflour (for crispiness)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry:
1 red capsicum, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
½ cup snow peas, trimmed
1 small carrot, julienned
For the Garlic-Ginger Sauce:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
¼ cup soy sauce
1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
1 tsp sriracha or chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)
For Serving:
Steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles
Toasted sesame seeds and sliced spring onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Step 1: Prep the Tofu
Drain the firm tofu and pat dry with a clean towel.
Cut into 2 cm cubes and toss with soy sauce and cornflour for a crispy coating.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu
Heat sesame oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the tofu cubes and fry for 4-5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy.
Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same pan, add capsicum, broccoli, snow peas, and carrots.
Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Make the Garlic-Ginger Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, ginger, maple syrup, sriracha, and rice vinegar.
Pour into the pan with the veggies and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the cornflour slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Add the crispy tofu back into the pan and toss everything together to coat.
Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles.
Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions.
Flavour Profile
Savoury & umami-rich – thanks to the soy sauce and sesame oil.
Mildly sweet – from maple syrup, balancing out the spice.
Spicy & bold – with sriracha adding a fiery kick.
Garlicky & aromatic – a must-have in any great stir-fry!
Variations & Substitutions
🟢 Swap the Protein:
Use tempeh for a firmer, nuttier bite.
Try mushrooms for an earthy, umami-rich alternative.
🟢 Make It Gluten-Free:
Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
🟢 Adjust the Spice:
Reduce sriracha for a mild version.
Add extra chilli flakes for serious heat.
🟢 Extra Veggie Boost:
Throw in baby corn, bok choy, or zucchini for variety.
🟢 Serve It Differently:
Enjoy in a wrap or as a noodle stir-fry instead of rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Crispy Tofu + Bold Flavours – The perfect combo!
✔ Customisable – Adjust spice, veggies, and proteins.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make it ahead for a grab-and-go meal.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for best texture.
What’s the best way to make the tofu extra crispy?
Make sure the tofu is pressed dry and coated evenly in cornflour before frying.
Can I bake or air-fry the tofu?
Yes!
Air Fryer: Cook at 200°C for 12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Oven: Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry is a bold, satisfying, and quick plant-based meal! Whether you're meal prepping, cooking for a weeknight dinner, or craving something spicy, this recipe delivers big flavour with minimal effort.
What’s your favourite stir-fry veggie combo? Let us know in the comments!