Introduction

Veggie Stir-Fry with Tofu and Peanut Sauce is a vibrant, healthy, and satisfying plant-based dish that combines crisp, colorful vegetables with protein-rich tofu, all coated in a creamy, savory peanut sauce. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures—the sweetness of bell peppers and carrots, the crunch of snap peas, and the nutty richness of the peanut sauce come together for a wholesome, flavorful meal.

It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a flavorful plant-based entrée, this stir-fry is a must-try.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it truly celebrates the beauty of fresh, colorful vegetables while being incredibly satisfying and nourishing. Every bite is full of crunch, flavor, and balance—the crisp stir-fried veggies, the golden tofu, and that rich, nutty peanut sauce tie everything together in the most comforting way.

It’s also one of those dishes that never feels boring. The peanut sauce has the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes, which means I never get tired of making it. Plus, it’s so adaptable—I can switch up the vegetables based on the season or what’s in my fridge, and it always tastes amazing.

Another reason I adore this dish is that it’s plant-based without feeling like it’s “missing” anything. The tofu provides protein and texture, the veggies bring freshness, and the peanut sauce adds richness. It’s wholesome comfort food that leaves me feeling energized instead of heavy.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Nutrient-packed: Loaded with protein, fiber, and vegetables.
• Flavorful: Savory, nutty, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy.
• Versatile: Swap vegetables or tofu for chicken, shrimp, or tempeh.
• Plant-based comfort food: Satisfying without being heavy.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~400 per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Asian / Plant-Based

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the Peanut Sauce:

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup warm water (to thin sauce as needed)

For Serving:

• Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

1. Drain tofu and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add tofu cubes and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and slightly crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in the skillet.
2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrot.
4. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and sriracha.
2. Add warm water gradually until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 4: Combine Tofu and Sauce

1. Return the tofu to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour the peanut sauce over the tofu and vegetables.
3. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Heat for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.

How to Serve

• Serve over steamed rice, brown rice, or rice noodles.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
• Add a wedge of lime on the side for extra freshness.

Recipe Tips

• Press tofu for 15–20 minutes before cooking to remove excess moisture for crispier cubes.
• Do not overcook vegetables—they should remain bright and slightly crunchy.
• Adjust the peanut sauce consistency with more water or peanut butter as needed.
• Add extra heat with more sriracha or red pepper flakes.
• For meal prep, store tofu and vegetables separately from sauce to prevent sogginess.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Replace tofu with tempeh, chicken, or shrimp.
• Vegetable Swap: Use zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, or baby corn.
• Spicy Version: Add more sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
• Creamy Coconut Peanut Sauce: Add 2 tablespoons coconut milk to the peanut sauce.
• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store stir-fry in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Vegetables may become soft when frozen; tofu can be frozen separately, and sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Spatula or tongs

FAQ

Q1: Can I use silken tofu?
Yes, but firm or extra-firm tofu holds up better in stir-fry.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cook vegetables and tofu separately, then combine with sauce when ready to serve.

Q4: Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but thaw and drain excess water before stir-frying to prevent sogginess.

Q5: Can I store the sauce separately?
Absolutely! Keep sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Conclusion

Veggie Stir-Fry with Tofu and Peanut Sauce is a healthy, flavorful, and versatile meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. It combines crisp vegetables, protein-packed tofu, and a creamy, nutty sauce for a satisfying and colorful dish.

This recipe is quick, nutritious, and endlessly customizable, making it a go-to for plant-based meals that don’t compromise on taste or satisfaction.