Extra-firm tofu is pressed, cubed, and pan-fried until golden, then tossed with seasonal vegetables in a homemade teriyaki sauce built from soy sauce, mirin, and fresh ginger. The sauce reduces quickly in the wok, giving each piece a glossy, umami-forward coating. The whole stir-fry is ready in about 30 minutes and serves well over rice or noodles.
14ozextra-firm tofupressed for 15 minutes, cut into 1-inch cubes
2tbspcornstarchfor crisping the tofu
2tbspneutral oillike grapeseed or sunflower
1cupbroccoli floretsfresh or blanched from frozen
1cupred bell peppersliced into matchsticks
½cupsugar snap peastrimmed
½cupcarrotsjulienned or shaved
For the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce:
⅓cuplow-sodium soy sauceor tamari for gluten-free
3tbspmaple syrupor agave nectar
2tbsprice vinegar
1tbsptoasted sesame oil
2tspfresh gingergrated
2clovesgarlicminced
1tbsparrowroot starchor cornstarch
¼cupcold waterto dissolve the starch
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Instructions
Press the tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
In a wok or large non-stick skillet, heat 2 tbsp of neutral oil over medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C). Add tofu cubes and pan-fry for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are crispy and golden. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
In the same skillet, add the broccoli, bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still bright and slightly crisp.
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine soy sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Separately, mix cornstarch and water into a slurry. Stir the slurry into the saucepan and bring everything to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously until thickened (1–2 minutes).
Add the tofu back to the pan with the vegetables. Pour teriyaki sauce over the top and toss to combine. Stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes until everything is coated and warmed through.
Notes
For a spicier teriyaki, add a dash of chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes.
To reduce preparation, use pre-cut vegetable stir-fry mixes. You can also bake or air-fry the tofu for a lower-oil option.