This Easy Zucchini Stir Fry is colorful and quick to make. With crispy tofu and fresh zucchini, it’s a tasty choice for lunch or dinner that really surprises your taste buds!
I love how the tofu gets crispy on the outside while being soft inside. Plus, this dish is a great way to use up veggies. It’s a quick fix for a busy day, and so good too! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Firm tofu works best for that crispy texture. If you prefer a soy-free option, try using tempeh or marinated cauliflower instead!
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are best, but yellow squash can be a fun alternative. If they’re not available, use other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas.
Bell Peppers: I like red for its sweetness, but you can substitute green or yellow, depending on what you have handy.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is great to control salt levels. If you’re gluten-free, go for tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute!
Hoisin Sauce: This is optional but adds depth. You can skip it, or mix together some peanut butter with a splash of soy sauce for a different flavor.
How Do You Get Tofu Crispy Without Frying?
Getting crispy tofu is all about removing moisture before cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Wrap tofu in paper towels and place something heavy on top for 15-20 minutes to press out excess water.
- Cut into cubes and sauté in a hot skillet with oil. Let it sit without moving it too much to develop a nice crust.
- Cook until golden brown on all sides (about 8-10 minutes). This keeps it crispy while you stir-fry your veggies!
These small steps will ensure your tofu is the star of the dish, adding that delicious crunch. Enjoy your time in the kitchen! 😊
Easy Zucchini Stir Fry with Crispy Tofu
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 14 oz (400g) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 oz (115g) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp maple syrup or sugar
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Zucchini Stir Fry takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making the total time about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weekday meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Press the Tofu:
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap it in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
2. Cook the Tofu:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir-Fry the Zucchini and Bell Pepper:
Now, add the zucchini rounds and red bell pepper slices to the pan. Stir-fry everything for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes. This delicious sauce is what brings the whole dish together!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the crispy tofu to the pan with the veggies and pour the sauce over the stir fry. Toss everything to coat evenly, and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
7. Season and Garnish:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a nice finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your flavorful, hearty, and healthy zucchini stir fry with crispy tofu hot, ideally alongside some steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Extra-Firm Tofu Instead of Firm Tofu?
Yes, extra-firm tofu can be used as well! It has a denser texture that holds up well during cooking, making it a great choice for achieving that crispy exterior. Just remember to press it well to remove excess moisture before cooking.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute in This Stir Fry?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute zucchini with broccoli, snap peas, or even carrots. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly for the veggies you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Yes! The recipe is already vegan-friendly, as all the ingredients used—especially the tofu and vegetable-based sauces—are plant-based. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish without any modifications!
