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Quick Crispy Tofu Cabbage Stir Fry

crispy tofu cabbage stir fry - featured image

A quick and easy 30-minute stir fry featuring crispy tofu and tender-crisp cabbage in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 green onions, sliced thin (separate white and green parts)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or peanut oil
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro or basil leaves (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Press and cube the tofu: Drain tofu, wrap in a clean towel, and place a heavy object on top for at least 10 minutes. Cut into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
  2. Prepare the vegetables: Shred cabbage, mince garlic, grate ginger, and slice green onions, separating white and green parts.
  3. Make the sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
  4. Cook the tofu: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook all sides until crispy, about 8-10 minutes total. Remove tofu and set aside.
  5. Stir fry aromatics and cabbage: In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Add garlic, ginger, and white parts of green onions; stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cabbage and cook, stirring often, until softened but still crunchy, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Combine and finish: Return tofu to the pan, pour sauce over, and toss gently to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle green onion tops and toasted sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Press tofu for at least 10 minutes to remove moisture for crispiness. Use a hot pan and oil with a high smoke point. Do not overcrowd the pan when frying tofu to avoid steaming. Cook cabbage until tender but still crunchy. Adjust sauce sweetness or tanginess to taste. For gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain tofu crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: tofu stir fry, crispy tofu, cabbage stir fry, quick dinner, easy vegan recipe, plant-based, gluten-free option