Tofu is a versatile and affordable ingredient that can be transformed into a delicious dinner centerpiece. If you're looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your rotation, these tofu dinner recipes are a fantastic starting point.
Advertisements1
From crispy baked tofu to savory stir-fries, we've gathered a variety of dishes that are not only healthy but also full of flavor. Whether you're a tofu newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes will become weeknight favorites.
With the right techniques, tofu can be crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absorb the flavors of any sauce beautifully. Let's dive into these easy and satisfying tofu dinner ideas.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
About the Ingredients
1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu
Extra-firm tofu holds its shape well during cooking. For a firmer texture, press it for 15 minutes to remove excess water.
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
Soy sauce adds savory umami. Low-sodium soy sauce works too; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Cornstarch helps create a crispy coating on the tofu. You can substitute arrowroot powder if needed.
2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral oil)
Olive oil is great for sautéing, but avocado or canola oil also work well due to their high smoke points.
1 red bell pepper, sliced
Adds color and sweetness. Any bell pepper color works; for extra heat, add a jalapeño.
1 cup broccoli florets
Broccoli provides crunch and nutrition. You can use frozen broccoli, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. In a pinch, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder can substitute.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Ginger adds a warm, zesty note. Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon) can be used if fresh is unavailable.
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
Hoisin sauce is thick and sweet. For a homemade version, mix soy sauce, peanut butter, and honey.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Rice vinegar adds mild acidity. Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute.
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Sesame oil gives a nutty aroma. Use toasted sesame oil for stronger flavor, and adjust quantity to taste.
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Adds freshness and color. Chives or cilantro also work well.
Tips & Tricks
- Press the tofu well to remove excess water. This helps it crisp up instead of steaming.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking tofu. Give each piece space to brown properly.
- If your stir-fry turns out watery, make sure your vegetables are dry and your sauce is thickened with cornstarch.
Pro Tips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Press and Cube Tofu
Remove tofu from package and drain. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel and press for 15 minutes. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. Season and Coat
In a bowl, toss tofu cubes with soy sauce and cornstarch until evenly coated. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Heat Oil in Pan
Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
4. Sear Tofu Until Golden
Add tofu cubes in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.
5. Stir-Fry Vegetables
In the same skillet, add bell pepper and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant.
6. Add Aromatics
Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
7. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour over vegetables.
8. Combine and Serve
Return tofu to the skillet. Toss everything to coat with sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Garnish with green onions.
Delicious Variations
Spicy Szechuan Tofu
Add 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce and 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns to the sauce.
Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry
Replace hoisin with 2 tablespoons peanut butter and add 1 tablespoon lime juice.
Teriyaki Tofu Bowl
Swap hoisin for teriyaki sauce and serve over rice with edamame and carrots.
How to Store Dinner Recipes With Tofu
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked tofu stir-fry for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I make tofu crispy?
To make tofu crispy, press out as much water as possible, coat it in cornstarch, and cook it in a hot pan with oil without overcrowding. This ensures a golden, crunchy exterior.
Q: Can I use silken tofu for stir-fry?
Silken tofu is too soft for stir-fry and will break apart. Use extra-firm or firm tofu instead for best results.
Q: Is tofu a good source of protein?
Yes, tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, providing about 10-12 grams per 100-gram serving. It's also rich in iron and calcium.
Q: How long does tofu last in the fridge?
Opened tofu can be stored in the fridge in water for up to 3-5 days, changing the water daily. Cooked tofu dishes last 3-4 days.
If you loved this tofu dinner recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family. Don't forget to subscribe for more delicious and easy plant-based meals every week!
Dinner Recipes With Tofu
Discover delicious tofu dinner recipes that are easy, protein-packed, and perfect for busy weeknights. Your family will love these flavorful meals.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
📋 Instructions
- 1Press and Cube Tofu — Remove tofu from package and drain. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel and press for 15 minutes. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 2Season and Coat — In a bowl, toss tofu cubes with soy sauce and cornstarch until evenly coated. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- 3Heat Oil in Pan — Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- 4Sear Tofu Until Golden — Add tofu cubes in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- 5Stir-Fry Vegetables — In the same skillet, add bell pepper and broccoli. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant.
- 6Add Aromatics — Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- 7Make the Sauce — In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour over vegetables.
- 8Combine and Serve — Return tofu to the skillet. Toss everything to coat with sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Garnish with green onions.
