Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry

This Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry is a flavorful, vibrant dish that combines crispy tofu with a medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a sweet and tangy chili sauce. It’s a simple, satisfying recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something both healthy and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is not only quick to prepare, but also packed with bold flavor and texture. The tofu is perfectly crisped and the vegetables remain tender-crisp, making every bite enjoyable. It’s also vegetarian, easily adaptable to vegan diets, and great for meal prepping. Whether served over rice or noodles, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Firm tofu

• Cornstarch

• Salt

• High-heat oil (like avocado or peanut oil)

• Red bell pepper

• Snow peas

• Carrot

• Garlic

• Ginger

• Sweet chili sauce

• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• Rice vinegar

• Optional: green onions, sesame seeds, cooked rice or noodles for serving

Directions

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.

2. Toss the tofu in cornstarch and a pinch of salt.

3. Heat oil in a skillet or wok and pan-fry the tofu until all sides are golden and crispy. Set aside.

4. In the same skillet, stir-fry the garlic, ginger, and vegetables until just tender but still crisp.

5. Mix together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to form the stir-fry sauce.

6. Return the tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything. Toss to coat evenly.

7. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and well coated in the sauce.

8. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Total time: approximately 30 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add more heat by incorporating chili flakes or sriracha.

• Use different vegetables such as broccoli, bok choy, or zucchini.

• Make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

• Use tempeh or seitan instead of tofu for a different texture.

• Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed through or microwave in a covered dish for 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of water or extra sauce if it seems dry.

FAQs

What kind of tofu works best for this recipe?

Firm or extra-firm tofu is ideal as it holds its shape during frying and develops a crispy exterior.

Can I bake the tofu instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake it at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as long as the sweet chili sauce used does not contain fish sauce, the recipe is entirely vegan.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the components in advance and store them separately. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, though fresh vegetables offer better texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them before stir-frying.

What is a good substitute for sweet chili sauce?

You can make a simple substitute with a mix of chili flakes, sugar, rice vinegar, and garlic, or use another sweet-savory sauce.

How do I prevent the tofu from sticking to the pan?

Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned wok and ensure the oil is hot before adding tofu.

Can I use air-fried tofu?

Absolutely. Air-fried tofu works well and adds a lighter crispy texture.

What’s the best oil to use for frying tofu?

High-heat oils like avocado, canola, or peanut oil work best for pan-frying tofu.

How can I make the dish more protein-rich?

You can add edamame, chickpeas, or top it with roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for additional protein.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry is a delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors paired with wholesome vegetables and crispy tofu. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and makes a perfect go-to meal for busy evenings or healthy meal prepping. Whether you’re a tofu enthusiast or just exploring plant-based meals, this recipe offers both nutrition and taste in every bite.