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easy vegetarian stir fry recipe

Vegetarian Stir Fry Recipe

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block (14 oz)  firm tofu pressed and cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons  soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon  cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons  vegetable oil
  • 1 red  bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup  broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot
  • 1 zucchini
  • 1 cup  mushrooms
  • 3 cloves  garlic
  • 1 teaspoon  fresh ginger
  • 2 tablespoons  low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon  hoisin sauce
  • 1 teaspoon  rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon  maple syrup or honey 

Method
 

  1. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, toss the tofu with soy sauce and cornstarch to coat evenly.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Toss in the bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, zucchini, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables become slightly tender but still crisp.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), red pepper flakes (if using), and water.
  6. Return the crispy tofu to the pan. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and tofu, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Notes

  • Press the tofu properly: Removing excess moisture ensures that the tofu crisps up nicely.
  • Use high heat: A hot pan helps the vegetables stay crisp and vibrant.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Stir-frying in batches prevents sogginess.
  • Customize your vegetables: Swap or add veggies like snap peas, baby corn, or even more mushrooms.
  • Adjust the sauce to taste: Add extra soy sauce for more saltiness or increase the maple syrup for a sweeter touch.