This easy zucchini stir fry is full of colorful veggies and crispy tofu, making it a tasty and healthy dish. It comes together quickly and is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
I love how the tofu gets that golden crunch while the zucchini stays tender. Plus, it’s a great way to clean out the fridge—just toss in any veggies you have lying around!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm tofu works best for frying as it holds its shape. If you’re soy-free, try chickpea or almond-based tofu. Pressing it well helps achieve that crispy texture, which I definitely recommend for the best results!
Zucchini: Look for firm, bright zucchinis. If absent, yellow squash could work as a fun substitute. You could even add in some other veggies like snap peas or broccoli for extra color and nutrients!
Bell Pepper: Red bell peppers add sweetness to the dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, green or yellow bell peppers can be used, or even snap peas or mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
Hoisin Sauce: This adds a hint of sweetness. If you don’t have it, a splash of maple syrup or brown sugar mixed with soy sauce can do the trick. It’s all about balancing flavors!
How Do I Get My Tofu Extra Crispy?
Crispiness is key to a tasty stir fry! Here’s how to achieve the perfect crispy tofu:
- Press your tofu: Ensure you press it for at least 15 minutes; this removes excess water and improves texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook tofu in a single layer for even browning. If your pan is too crowded, you’ll end up steaming instead of frying.
- Turn the heat up: Use medium-high heat to get that golden crust. Flip the tofu only when it’s ready—don’t rush it!
Following these steps will give you delicious, crispy tofu that complements your stir fry perfectly!
Easy Zucchini Stir Fry with Crispy Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced diagonally
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
For Flavoring:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili sauce (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir fry will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Once you’ve pressed it, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes. This helps it become beautifully crispy when we fry it!
2. Make the Tofu Crispy:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Allow them to cook without stirring for about 4-5 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and crisp. Flip the tofu cubes and cook for another 4-5 minutes until all sides are nicely browned. After that, carefully remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced carrots and diced bell pepper. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Add the Zucchini:
Now, it’s time to add the zucchini! Stir in the zucchini slices and cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still maintains a little crunch. We want all those beautiful colors to shine through!
5. Combine Tofu and Sauce:
Return that crispy tofu to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, and the chili flakes for some heat if desired. Gently toss everything together for about 2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to mix.
6. Season and Serve:
Give the stir fry a taste and add salt or pepper as needed. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pan from the heat and garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor!
7. Serving Suggestion:
This stir fry is perfect served hot over a bed of steamed rice or tossed with noodles for a filling meal. Enjoy every colorful bite of your fresh and healthy zucchini stir fry with crispy tofu!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Stir Fry with Crispy Tofu
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This stir fry is very versatile. Feel free to substitute with any vegetables you have on hand, like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to keep them tender yet crisp!
How Do I Store Leftover Stir Fry?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it features tofu and vegetables with no animal products! Just ensure the sauces you use (like soy sauce and hoisin sauce) are also vegan-friendly by checking their labels.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, and ensure that any other sauces you use are labeled gluten-free. Enjoy a deliciously safe stir fry!
