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 foodthat only takes 30 minutes to make using one pan.
½teaspoonof red pepper flakesThis is to make it medium-hot. Adjust accordingly.
2Tablespoonsof vegetable oildivided
1block of tofupressed and cubed
1shallotsliced
2clovesgarlic sliced
½poundof snow peas
½cupof sliced mushrooms
1Tablespoonof sesame seeds
Cooked ricefor serving (optional)
Instructions
Add the soy sauce, both kinds of vinegar, cornstarch, sugar, and red pepper flakes to a bowl and whisk together.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil on medium-high heat and cook the tofu until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium, add another tablespoon of oil, and saute the shallots and garlic for about a minute. Add the snow peas, mushrooms, and sesame seeds and stir frequently until the peas turn nice and green.
Add the tofu and sauce mixture and cook until the sauce begins to thicken, about a minute.
Serve by itself or on a bed of rice.
Video
Notes
Since this is a quick cook recipe, make sure all your ingredients are measured and chopped before you start cooking.
When cooking the tofu, don’t move it around too much. Allow the sides to sear well before flipping them to get that golden crunchy goodness!
Do not overcook the veggies, so they retain their color and texture. Overcooked vegetables are soggy and limp – not appetizing at all!
If you are using other veggies, make sure to slice them into equal sizes, so they all cook evenly. Some veggies need more cooking time like carrots and broccoli, so place them in the pan first.
This dish calls for tofu. If you are allergic to soy, you can substitute it with seitan.
You can add even more texture by sprinkling it with nuts like crushed cashews, peanuts, or almonds.
Serve it with the traditional white or brown rice. However, you can also use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles.