Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry Flavorful and Healthy Dish

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Are you ready to dive into a dish that’s both tasty and healthy? My Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry brings together crisp vegetables, savory tofu, and a rich teriyaki sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or friends, this dish packs flavor that everyone loves. Let’s get to the ingredients and create your new favorite dish!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce is a delightful combination of sweet and savory, elevating the dish.
  3. Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich tofu, this stir fry is a nutritious choice.
  4. Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry

  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated

For a tasty Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry, firm tofu is key. It holds its shape well and soaks up flavors. Fresh vegetables add color and crunch. Broccoli brings nutrients, while bell pepper adds sweetness. Carrots offer a nice texture. Don’t forget the aromatics! Garlic and ginger give you that classic stir-fry taste. Green onions bring a burst of fresh flavor.

Teriyaki Sauce Components

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

The teriyaki sauce is simple yet delicious. Low-sodium soy sauce keeps it healthier. Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Rice vinegar brightens the flavor. Lastly, sesame oil gives a nutty richness to the sauce. This combo makes your stir fry shine.

Optional Garnishes

  • Sesame seeds
  • Extra green onions

Garnishes make your dish pop! Sesame seeds add crunch and a nutty taste. Extra green onions offer freshness and color. These small touches can elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Tofu

Cutting and Pressing Tofu

Start with a block of firm tofu. Drain it and press it well. This helps remove extra water. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.

Coating with Cornstarch

Take 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss the tofu cubes in it until they are well coated. This will give your tofu a nice crunch when cooked.

Cooking the Tofu

Heating the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the tofu.

Browning the Tofu

Add the tofu cubes to the hot oil. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them until they are golden brown on all sides. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

Cooking Aromatics

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!

Adding and Cooking Vegetables

Now, add the broccoli florets, bell pepper slices, and julienned carrot. Stir-fry these for about 5-6 minutes. You want them to be tender but still crisp.

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

Whisking Sauce Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Whisk these together until the sugar dissolves.

Combining Ingredients

Returning Tofu to Skillet

Once the vegetables are cooked, return the browned tofu to the skillet.

Mixing with Teriyaki Sauce and Cooking

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the tofu and veggies. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken a bit. Now, your stir fry is almost ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Tofu Texture

Importance of Pressing Tofu

Pressing tofu is key for great texture. It removes water and helps tofu absorb flavors. Wrap the tofu in a clean dish towel. Place a heavy object on top for at least 30 minutes. This step makes a big difference in taste and texture.

Using Cornstarch for Crispiness

Coating tofu with cornstarch adds crunch. Toss the pressed tofu cubes in cornstarch before cooking. This creates a crispy layer when you fry it. The cornstarch helps the tofu hold sauce better too. You will enjoy the contrast of textures in each bite.

Enhancing Flavor

Adding More Spices

To boost flavor, feel free to add spices. Try red pepper flakes for heat. A sprinkle of black pepper adds warmth. You can also use sesame seeds for a nutty flavor. Experiment and find what you like best.

Tips for Customizing Vegetables

You can swap vegetables based on your taste. Snow peas, bell peppers, and zucchini work well. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes. This helps them cook evenly. Use what you love or what is in season for the best taste.

Serving Suggestions

Best Accompaniments: Rice or Quinoa

Serve this stir fry over rice or quinoa. Both options soak up the teriyaki sauce well. Jasmine rice adds a nice fragrance. Quinoa gives a nutty taste and is packed with protein. Choose what fits your meal best.

Plating Techniques for Presentation

To make your dish pop, use colorful plates. Layer the rice or quinoa first, then add the stir fry on top. Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds. A sprinkle of vibrant colors makes the dish look inviting. Enjoy the beauty on your plate as much as the taste!

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Pressed Tofu: Ensure your tofu is well-pressed to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispier texture when frying.
  2. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
  3. Teriyaki Sauce Variations: Experiment with different ingredients in your teriyaki sauce, such as adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
  4. Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, serve this stir fry over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, and consider adding some toasted nuts for extra crunch.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can swap tofu for tempeh or chicken. Tempeh offers a nutty taste and adds protein. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you prefer chicken, use boneless pieces. Cook the chicken until no longer pink. Then, follow the same steps for the stir fry.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

For a vegetarian or vegan boost, add more plant-based veggies. Try snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini. Each adds unique flavors and colors. Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables too. This way, you keep the dish fresh and exciting.

Sauce Variations

You can create a sweet and spicy teriyaki version. Just add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. This gives a nice kick. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. It tastes great and keeps the dish healthy.

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

For the best taste, store your leftover Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. It stays good in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just heat it up.

Freezing the Stir Fry

You can freeze this dish for later meals. First, allow it to cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Label the container with the date. This helps you remember when to use it.

Reheating Tips

Reheating is easy and quick. You can use a microwave or a skillet. For the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir after each burst to avoid hot spots. If using a skillet, add a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat on medium until warmed through. Enjoy your stir fry just like the first time!

FAQs

What can I substitute for tofu in this recipe?

You can use tempeh or seitan instead of tofu. Both options have a nice texture. If you prefer meat, chicken or shrimp also work well.

Can I use frozen vegetables for stir fry?

Yes, frozen vegetables are great for stir fry. They cook quickly and save time. Just make sure to thaw them first for best results.

How long does the stir fry stay fresh in the fridge?

The stir fry stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it tasty.

Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

Regular teriyaki sauce often contains soy sauce, which has gluten. You can find gluten-free soy sauce to make a gluten-free teriyaki sauce.

Can I make this recipe a day ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the stir fry a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving for the best flavor.

In this post, I shared how to make a tasty teriyaki tofu stir fry. You learned about essential ingredients like firm tofu, fresh veggies, and teriyaki sauce components. I provided simple step-by-step instructions and handy tips for perfecting texture and enhancing flavor. Remember, customizing your dish can lead to new favorites. This recipe is not only healthy but also fun to make. Keep it in mind for busy nights or tasty meal prep. Enjoy your cooking adventur

- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and pressed - 2 cups broccoli florets - 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color) - 1 carrot, julienned - 3 green onions, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 inch ginger, grated For a tasty Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry, firm tofu is key. It holds its shape well and soaks up flavors. Fresh vegetables add color and crunch. Broccoli brings nutrients, while bell pepper adds sweetness. Carrots offer a nice texture. Don't forget the aromatics! Garlic and ginger give you that classic stir-fry taste. Green onions bring a burst of fresh flavor. - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 2 tablespoons brown sugar - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil The teriyaki sauce is simple yet delicious. Low-sodium soy sauce keeps it healthier. Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Rice vinegar brightens the flavor. Lastly, sesame oil gives a nutty richness to the sauce. This combo makes your stir fry shine. - Sesame seeds - Extra green onions Garnishes make your dish pop! Sesame seeds add crunch and a nutty taste. Extra green onions offer freshness and color. These small touches can elevate your meal to a whole new level. {{ingredient_image_1}} Cutting and Pressing Tofu Start with a block of firm tofu. Drain it and press it well. This helps remove extra water. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. Coating with Cornstarch Take 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss the tofu cubes in it until they are well coated. This will give your tofu a nice crunch when cooked. Heating the Oil In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the tofu. Browning the Tofu Add the tofu cubes to the hot oil. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them until they are golden brown on all sides. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside. Cooking Aromatics In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds. This will make your kitchen smell amazing! Adding and Cooking Vegetables Now, add the broccoli florets, bell pepper slices, and julienned carrot. Stir-fry these for about 5-6 minutes. You want them to be tender but still crisp. Whisking Sauce Ingredients In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Whisk these together until the sugar dissolves. Returning Tofu to Skillet Once the vegetables are cooked, return the browned tofu to the skillet. Mixing with Teriyaki Sauce and Cooking Pour the teriyaki sauce over the tofu and veggies. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken a bit. Now, your stir fry is almost ready to serve! Importance of Pressing Tofu Pressing tofu is key for great texture. It removes water and helps tofu absorb flavors. Wrap the tofu in a clean dish towel. Place a heavy object on top for at least 30 minutes. This step makes a big difference in taste and texture. Using Cornstarch for Crispiness Coating tofu with cornstarch adds crunch. Toss the pressed tofu cubes in cornstarch before cooking. This creates a crispy layer when you fry it. The cornstarch helps the tofu hold sauce better too. You will enjoy the contrast of textures in each bite. Adding More Spices To boost flavor, feel free to add spices. Try red pepper flakes for heat. A sprinkle of black pepper adds warmth. You can also use sesame seeds for a nutty flavor. Experiment and find what you like best. Tips for Customizing Vegetables You can swap vegetables based on your taste. Snow peas, bell peppers, and zucchini work well. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes. This helps them cook evenly. Use what you love or what is in season for the best taste. Best Accompaniments: Rice or Quinoa Serve this stir fry over rice or quinoa. Both options soak up the teriyaki sauce well. Jasmine rice adds a nice fragrance. Quinoa gives a nutty taste and is packed with protein. Choose what fits your meal best. Plating Techniques for Presentation To make your dish pop, use colorful plates. Layer the rice or quinoa first, then add the stir fry on top. Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds. A sprinkle of vibrant colors makes the dish look inviting. Enjoy the beauty on your plate as much as the taste! Pro Tips Perfectly Pressed Tofu: Ensure your tofu is well-pressed to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispier texture when frying. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Teriyaki Sauce Variations: Experiment with different ingredients in your teriyaki sauce, such as adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist. Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, serve this stir fry over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, and consider adding some toasted nuts for extra crunch. {{image_2}} You can swap tofu for tempeh or chicken. Tempeh offers a nutty taste and adds protein. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you prefer chicken, use boneless pieces. Cook the chicken until no longer pink. Then, follow the same steps for the stir fry. For a vegetarian or vegan boost, add more plant-based veggies. Try snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini. Each adds unique flavors and colors. Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables too. This way, you keep the dish fresh and exciting. You can create a sweet and spicy teriyaki version. Just add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce. This gives a nice kick. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. It tastes great and keeps the dish healthy. For the best taste, store your leftover Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. It stays good in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, just heat it up. You can freeze this dish for later meals. First, allow it to cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Label the container with the date. This helps you remember when to use it. Reheating is easy and quick. You can use a microwave or a skillet. For the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir after each burst to avoid hot spots. If using a skillet, add a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat on medium until warmed through. Enjoy your stir fry just like the first time! You can use tempeh or seitan instead of tofu. Both options have a nice texture. If you prefer meat, chicken or shrimp also work well. Yes, frozen vegetables are great for stir fry. They cook quickly and save time. Just make sure to thaw them first for best results. The stir fry stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it tasty. Regular teriyaki sauce often contains soy sauce, which has gluten. You can find gluten-free soy sauce to make a gluten-free teriyaki sauce. Yes, you can prepare the stir fry a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving for the best flavor. In this post, I shared how to make a tasty teriyaki tofu stir fry. You learned about essential ingredients like firm tofu, fresh veggies, and teriyaki sauce components. I provided simple step-by-step instructions and handy tips for perfecting texture and enhancing flavor. Remember, customizing your dish can lead to new favorites. This recipe is not only healthy but also fun to make. Keep it in mind for busy nights or tasty meal prep. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Teriyaki Tofu Stir Fry

A colorful and vibrant stir fry featuring tofu and fresh vegetables in a savory teriyaki sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper sliced (any color)
  • 1 carrot julienned
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 green onions chopped
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 0.25 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • none sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Begin by cutting the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes. Toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated.
  • In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
  • While the vegetables are cooking, make the teriyaki sauce in a small bowl by whisking together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
  • Return the browned tofu to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the top and stir gently to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the stir fry.

Notes

Serve over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, garnished with extra green onions and sesame seeds.
Keyword stir fry, teriyaki, tofu, vegetarian

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