- Why is my tofu sticking?
- Two reasons: wet tofu (press it!) or the wok wasn't hot enough. Be patient and let the tofu sear until it releases naturally from the pan.
Classic Ginger Soy Tofu Stir-Fry
Stir-frying relies on speed and intense heat ('wok hei' or 'breath of the wok') to give food that signature smoky flavor. The goal is to get a crust on the tofu while keeping the vegetables crisp-tender as the soy sauce steam permeates them.
Ingredients
1
block (14 oz)
Firm Tofu (plain or smoked)
14
oz
Mixed Stir-Fry Vegetables (carrots, broccoli, onion, snow peas)
4
tbsp
Soy Sauce
1
knob
Fresh Ginger
2
cloves
Garlic
3
tbsp
Oil (Sunflower or Sesame)
1
tsp
Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Wok or Large Skillet
- Paper Towels
Allergen Information
Soy
Wheat (check soy sauce)
Instructions
1
✓
Wrap tofu in paper towels and press for 15 minutes to remove water. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
Tip: Removing water allows the tofu to act like a sponge for flavors and crisp up better.
2
✓
Finely mince ginger and garlic.
3
✓
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok until smoking. Add tofu and fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Tip: Don't move it constantly! Let it sear for 1-2 minutes per side to trigger the Maillard reaction.
4
✓
Add remaining oil, toss in ginger and garlic, followed by vegetables. Stir-fry vigorously for 3-4 minutes.
Tip: Keep food moving to get contact with the hot metal without burning.
5
✓
Return tofu to wok, drizzle with soy sauce, and toss for 1 minute.
Tip: If you prefer a saucier dish, mix the cornstarch with a splash of water and add at the end.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz) Firm Tofu (plain or smoked)
- 14 oz Mixed Stir-Fry Vegetables (carrots, broccoli, onion, snow peas)
- 4 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 knob Fresh Ginger
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 3 tbsp Oil (Sunflower or Sesame)
- 1 tsp Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)