Looking for a meal that combines vibrant flavors, healthy ingredients, and a satisfying texture? This Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry is just what you need! With crispy tofu, a tangy-sweet sauce, and a mix of colorful vegetables, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re planning a quick dinner or preparing a wholesome meal for the whole family, this stir-fry is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

The recipe was created with the goal of bringing a healthier, plant-based twist to traditional stir-fries, replacing meat with tofu as the protein-packed ingredient. When cooked correctly, tofu becomes crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, making it an ideal base for a sweet and sour sauce that brings the entire dish together. Plus, the vibrant veggies add both crunch and color, making this meal as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Perfect for busy nights or meal prepping, this dish can be whipped up in about 30 minutes, making it an easy go-to when you’re craving something satisfying yet wholesome. It’s also customizable, allowing you to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the sauce to your preferred sweetness and spice level. This stir-fry is naturally vegan and gluten-free, offering a nutritious and satisfying option that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry

Selling Points:

• Crispy Tofu: The tofu in this stir-fry is cooked to crispy perfection on the outside, offering a satisfying texture that complements the veggies and sauce.
  
• Balanced Flavors: The tangy and sweet sauce adds a delightful layer of flavor that perfectly complements the tofu and vegetables.
  
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy evenings when you want a healthy, flavorful meal without the hassle.
  
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adjust the vegetables, sauce, or level of sweetness to suit your taste.
  
• Healthy and Nutrient-Rich: Packed with plant-based protein from the tofu and tons of vitamins from the veggies, this stir-fry is as nutritious as it is delicious.
  

What You’ll Need for Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
  
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  
• 1/2 onion, sliced
  
• 1 cup broccoli florets
  
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
  

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
  
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
  
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken sauce)
  
• 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry

1. Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes and toss with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to coat. This will help create a crispy exterior when frying.
   
2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), ketchup, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
   
3. Cook the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
   
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the onion, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Add the pineapple chunks, garlic, and ginger (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
   
5. Combine the Tofu and Sauce: Return the tofu to the pan and pour the sweet and sour sauce over the mixture. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
   
6. Serve: Serve the stir-fry over rice, noodles, or on its own. Garnish with extra sesame seeds or cilantro, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry

• Crispier Tofu: Press the tofu well to remove as much moisture as possible. The less moisture in the tofu, the crispier it will get when frying.
  
• Customize the Veggies: Swap in your favorite vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms to make the stir-fry your own.
  
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter or more tangy sauce, adjust the honey or vinegar to your liking.
  
• Meal Prep: This stir-fry stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, so it’s perfect for meal prepping.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.
  
• Vegan Version: This recipe is already vegan, but feel free to add extra protein like edamame or chickpeas for an even heartier meal.
  
• Add Spice: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Closing for your Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry

And there you have it! A colorful, flavorful Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry that’s both satisfying and packed with delicious tangy sweetness. Quick to make and full of vibrant veggies, it’s the perfect dish for a light yet filling meal. Serve it over rice or noodles, and enjoy this easy, wholesome dish that’s sure to hit the spot!

Frequently Asked Questions for your Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry

Can I make this stir-fry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir-fry in advance, but it’s best to keep the tofu and sauce separate until you’re ready to serve. Store the tofu and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, then reheat and add the sauce just before serving.

Can I use frozen tofu?
Yes! Freezing tofu and then pressing it after thawing gives it a more “meaty” texture, which is great for stir-fries. Just make sure to press out the excess water before cooking.

Can I make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes, sriracha, or fresh chopped chili to the stir-fry for a nice heat kick.

What can I serve this stir-fry with?
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also enjoy it on its own as a low-carb meal.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

This Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry is the perfect meal when you’re craving something quick, flavorful, and nutritious. With crispy tofu, tangy-sweet sauce, and crunchy veggies, it’s a deliciously satisfying dish that will become a regular in your weeknight dinner rotation. Give it a try today and enjoy a healthy, tasty, and comforting meal!

Easy Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1/2 onion, sliced

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)

• For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken sauce)

• 1 tablespoon water

Directions

• Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes and toss with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to coat. This will help create a crispy exterior when frying.
• Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), ketchup, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
• Cook the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden. Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
• Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the onion, bell peppers, and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Add the pineapple chunks, garlic, and ginger (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
• Combine the Tofu and Sauce: Return the tofu to the pan and pour the sweet and sour sauce over the mixture. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
• Serve: Serve the stir-fry over rice, noodles, or on its own. Garnish with extra sesame seeds or cilantro, if desired.