Go Back

Garlic Tofu Stir-Fry with Bok Choy and Rice

A quick, delicious, and healthy dish featuring crispy tofu and fresh vegetables in a savory sauce, perfect for a plant-based meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Serving Size 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Tofu

  • 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes Ensure it's pressed to remove excess moisture.
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch Used to coat the tofu for crispiness.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil For cooking the tofu.

For the Stir-Fry

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 4 cups bok choy, chopped
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
  • 0.5 cup sliced carrots
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce Optional for sweetness.
  • 0.25 cup vegetable broth or water To help combine the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds Optional for garnish.
  • 2 green onions, sliced green onions, sliced For garnish.
  • 2 cups cooked rice White, brown, or jasmine rice.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes.
  • Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Cooking the Tofu

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add the tofu cubes and cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping occasionally until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

  • In the same skillet, add vegetable oil and heat over medium-high.
  • Add the garlic and ginger and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the bok choy, bell pepper, and carrots, and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Add Sauce and Combine

  • Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, hoisin sauce, and vegetable broth to the pan.
  • Stir to combine and cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is coated in the sauce.

Finish Dish

  • Return the crispy tofu to the pan and gently toss everything together to combine.
  • Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the tofu is heated through.

Serving

  • Serve the garlic tofu stir-fry over a bed of cooked rice.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Notes

For best results, press the tofu well to remove moisture. Customize with your favorite veggies for a personal touch!