This Spicy Sesame Tofu Stir-Fry is a healthier homemade version of a popular Chinese restaurant take-out. Lightly pan-fried crispy tofu bites tossed with crunchy snow peas, tender mushrooms, and nutty sesame seeds - all coated in a sweet soy glaze with a punch of heat! It is a hearty and delicious comfort food that only takes 30 minutes to make using one pan.
What is there to love about this dish? Everything! It is a delicious mixture of sweet, savory, and spicy, plus it uses simple ingredients that are budget-friendly and easy to find. It is perfect for those hectic weekdays when you need something quick yet filling! You will also love the combination of different textures - from the snappy snow peas, tender mushrooms, crunchy sesame seeds, and crisp-tender tofu pieces.
It is also quite customizable. You can adjust the spice level by adding, reducing, or omitting the red pepper flakes. You can also use any spices on hand or add your favorite veggies such as broccoli, carrots, bok choi, green peas, and bell peppers. It's the perfect recipe to use leftover veggie cuts in your chiller, so they do not go to waste.
Preparations:
Steps:
1) Make the Sauce Mixture. Combine soy sauce, sherry, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sugar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir to combine.
2) Fry the Tofu. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a pan and cook the tofu on medium-high until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3) Stir-fry the Veggies. Using the same pan, set heat to medium, then add 1 tablespoon of oil. Saute shallots and garlic, then add snow peas, mushrooms, and sesame seeds. Stir the veggies frequently until the peas turn a vibrant green in color.
4) Combine. Add the tofu and the soy sauce mixture into the pan until the sauce thickens. Whisk and blend well; otherwise, you will get a lumpy sauce.
5) Serve. Serve the Spicy Sesame Tofu Stir-fry over a bed of rice and enjoy!
Refrigerate Spicy Sesame Tofu Stir-fry leftovers for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave. You can freeze this as well. Keep in mind that once the tofu has sat in the sauce for a time, the leftovers will not be as crispy.
Photos by Alfonso Revilla
Jorie says
Sounds delicious!! Can you use something other than that much sugar?
Andrea White says
You could always add less and adjust to your liking 🙂 Enjoy!
Michelle Cehn says
Goodness me, this looks divine!!
Gina House says
Yes! I love everything about this recipe. The spice and the sesame flavors are perfection. I adore this stir fry!
Amanda says
Give me ALL the tofu!
Teodora Grujic says
Tofu is not my favorite, but this turned out great!
Andrea White says
So so good! Love all things tofu!