This Japanese-Style Tofu Stir-Fry is perfect for when you want a tasty, healthy meal that’s quick and easy to make. Tofu is the star here, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the sauce and making every bite amazing. Plus, it’s packed with a variety of veggies, making it a nutritious option for any meal.
What makes this dish unique is its Japanese twist. The flavors are inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine, with ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil giving it that authentic taste. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory and slightly sweet sauce that pairs perfectly with the tofu and vegetables. It’s like bringing a bit of Japan right into your kitchen!
I love making this stir-fry because it’s simple, yet it feels like something special. The ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and you can even customize it with your favorite vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots are some of my top picks, but feel free to add whatever you like best.
This recipe is great for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast. The prep work is minimal, and the cooking time is short. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce tofu to anyone who hasn’t tried it before or isn’t sure if they like it. The tofu absorbs the rich, savory flavors of the sauce, making it delicious and satisfying.
So, let’s get cooking! Grab your ingredients, and let’s make this delicious and unique Japanese-Style Tofu Stir-Fry together. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes -Japanese-Style Tofu Stir-Fry
- Adjusting Heat Level: For a spicier kick, add more chili oil or a dash of red pepper flakes. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish over steamed rice or with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.
- Protein Alternatives: You can substitute the ground pork with ground chicken, turkey, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Tofu Texture: If you prefer a firmer texture, use firm tofu instead of silken tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.
- Sauce Thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for a quicker meal prep.
- Garnishing: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds along with chopped scallions for added crunch and flavor.
Japanese-Style Tofu Stir-Fry
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this Japanese-Style Tofu Stir-Fry! This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining tender tofu with a savory sauce and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is both simple and satisfying. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes320
kcal25
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Sauce
2/3 cup low sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon sweet rice wine (mirin)
1 tablespoon seafood sauce (oyster sauce)
2 teaspoons roasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Stir-Fry
1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable oil)
1/2 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
1 large clove garlic, grated (about 1 teaspoon)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon fermented soybean paste (miso)
1/3 pound ground pork (about 150 grams)
14 ounces silken tofu (cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- To Serve
chili oil (to taste)
chopped green onions (scallions) for garnish
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Oyster Sauce: Soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
Ground Pork: Ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
Silken Tofu: Firm tofu for a different texture.
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce – In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, mirin, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics – Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil followed by the finely chopped onion, grated garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Cook the Pork – Add the ground pork to the pan and break it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the pork is browned and cooked through.
- Combine Sauce and Tofu – Give the prepared sauce another stir to reincorporate any settled starch and pour it into the pan with the pork. Gently add the cubed tofu and stir to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Simmer and Serve – Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and the tofu is heated through. Serve hot with a garnish of chopped scallions and a drizzle of chili oil to taste.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Nonstick Pan
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 320kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 200IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 80mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ – Japanese-Style Tofu Stir-Fry
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth and the oyster sauce with soy sauce. Additionally, you can replace the ground pork with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
What type of tofu should I use for this stir-fry?
The recipe calls for silken tofu, which gives a soft and delicate texture. However, if you prefer a firmer texture, you can use firm tofu. Make sure to press the firm tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, ensure you whisk the cornstarch thoroughly with the other sauce ingredients before adding it to the pan. If the sauce is still not thick enough, let it simmer for a few extra minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli to the stir-fry. These additions can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
What can I serve with this tofu stir-fry?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
