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Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry Flavorful Easy Dinner

by on August 4, 2025

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Looking for a quick, tasty dinner that packs a punch? My Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry is your answer! This dish features crispy tofu and fresh veggies, all tossed in a delicious sauce that balances sweet and spicy. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and customize with your favorite ingredients. Let’s dive into the delightful world of flavor and make dinner exciting again!

- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu - 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips - 1 cup broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced - 3 green onions, finely chopped, white and green parts separated - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated When I make sweet chili tofu stir fry, I start with firm tofu. It holds its shape and gives a great texture. I slice the tofu into bite-sized cubes, making it easy to eat. Adding fresh vegetables like red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot brings color and crunch. The green onions add a nice zing, while garlic and ginger give a warm flavor that makes this dish pop. - 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed The sauce is the star of this dish. Sweet chili sauce provides a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. I mix it with soy sauce for depth and freshly squeezed lime juice for brightness. This trio creates a sauce that clings to the tofu and veggies, making every bite flavorful. - Sesame seeds - Fresh cilantro For garnishes, I love using sesame seeds. They add a nice crunch and look great on the dish. Fresh cilantro gives a fresh taste that makes the stir fry even more vibrant. These garnishes are optional, but they really enhance the meal. This recipe is simple, quick, and full of flavors. You can customize it to your taste and enjoy a colorful dish on your plate. To start, drain the tofu block well. This step removes excess water. Next, wrap it in a clean towel. Place something heavy on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the tofu become firmer. Now, cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over the tofu. Toss gently, coating all sides. This coating helps the tofu become crispy when cooked. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers. Carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side. Turn gently to avoid breaking the cubes. The tofu should be golden brown and crispy. Once done, take the tofu out and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Next, toss in the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and thinly sliced carrot. Stir-fry these veggies for 4-5 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure they cook evenly. The goal is vibrant colors and a slightly tender but still crisp texture. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the veggies. Stir-fry for 1 more minute. This step brings out their great aroma. Now, return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and fresh lime juice. Gently toss everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Finally, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish your stir fry with chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Enjoy the bright flavors and textures in this dish! Tofu can be a great meat alternative, but it needs some care. First, press the tofu. This step removes extra water, which helps the tofu become crispy. It also helps the tofu soak up flavors better. After pressing, cut the tofu into cubes. Next, coat the cubes in cornstarch. This coating is key. It makes the outside crunchy when you fry it. Toss the cubes gently, ensuring each side is covered well. To elevate your dish, think about extra seasonings. You can add a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper. Some chili flakes can bring heat. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a bright taste too. Don’t skip fresh lime juice! It adds a punch that wakes up all the flavors. Squeeze it right before serving for the best taste. When it comes to sides, pair your stir fry with jasmine rice or quinoa. Both make great bases for the sweet chili tofu. You can also serve it with a side salad for freshness. For a nice touch, use a big bowl. Serve the stir fry over rice and drizzle more sweet chili sauce on top. Finish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for a beautiful look. {{image_4}} You can switch tofu for other proteins. Chicken or shrimp works well in this dish. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cook them until golden brown. They add a nice flavor and texture. If you want a vegan option, try chickpeas or tempeh. Both are tasty and full of protein. They soak up flavors well, making your stir fry delicious. Feel free to use any fresh vegetables you like. Seasonal veggies add great taste. Try snap peas, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can mix and match depending on what you have. If you don’t like certain veggies, leave them out. The stir fry is flexible, so use what makes you happy! You can change the sauce to fit your taste. If you want it sweeter, add more sweet chili sauce. For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or sriracha. You can also make your own sweet chili sauce. Just combine sugar, vinegar, and garlic for a quick version. This gives you control over the flavors! After cooking, let your sweet chili tofu stir fry cool down. You can store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This way, it stays fresh longer. It keeps well for up to three days. Don’t leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours. To reheat, you have a few options. The best way is to use a stovetop. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water. This keeps the tofu and veggies moist. Stir gently until it’s hot. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps maintain the texture. You can freeze your stir fry if you want to save it for later. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, pack it into freezer-safe bags. Try to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave as mentioned above. Enjoy your tasty meal later! Making this dish takes about 25 minutes. - Prep time is 15 minutes. - Cooking time is around 10 minutes. Yes, you can use other sauces. - Try teriyaki sauce for a sweeter taste. - Soy sauce gives a saltier kick. - Hoisin sauce adds richness and depth. Yes, this stir fry is healthy. - Tofu is a great protein source. - Bell peppers and broccoli are rich in vitamins. - Fresh ginger and garlic boost your immune system. - You can enjoy this dish without guilt. In this post, we explored how to make Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry. We covered essential ingredients, like firm tofu, fresh veggies, and flavorful sauces. I shared step-by-step instructions, plus tips for crispy tofu and best serving suggestions. Remember, you can customize this dish with different proteins and veggies, making it your own. Enjoy your stir fry adventure! It’s tasty, easy, and great for any meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry

– 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

– 1 cup broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced

– 3 green onions, finely chopped, white and green parts separated

– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated

When I make sweet chili tofu stir fry, I start with firm tofu. It holds its shape and gives a great texture. I slice the tofu into bite-sized cubes, making it easy to eat. Adding fresh vegetables like red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot brings color and crunch. The green onions add a nice zing, while garlic and ginger give a warm flavor that makes this dish pop.

Sauce Ingredients

– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed

The sauce is the star of this dish. Sweet chili sauce provides a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. I mix it with soy sauce for depth and freshly squeezed lime juice for brightness. This trio creates a sauce that clings to the tofu and veggies, making every bite flavorful.

Optional Garnishes

– Sesame seeds

– Fresh cilantro

For garnishes, I love using sesame seeds. They add a nice crunch and look great on the dish. Fresh cilantro gives a fresh taste that makes the stir fry even more vibrant. These garnishes are optional, but they really enhance the meal.

This recipe is simple, quick, and full of flavors. You can customize it to your taste and enjoy a colorful dish on your plate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Tofu

To start, drain the tofu block well. This step removes excess water. Next, wrap it in a clean towel. Place something heavy on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the tofu become firmer.

Now, cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over the tofu. Toss gently, coating all sides. This coating helps the tofu become crispy when cooked.

Cooking the Tofu

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers. Carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side. Turn gently to avoid breaking the cubes. The tofu should be golden brown and crispy. Once done, take the tofu out and set it aside on a plate.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Next, toss in the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and thinly sliced carrot. Stir-fry these veggies for 4-5 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure they cook evenly. The goal is vibrant colors and a slightly tender but still crisp texture.

Combining Ingredients

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the veggies. Stir-fry for 1 more minute. This step brings out their great aroma. Now, return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and fresh lime juice. Gently toss everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Finally, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish your stir fry with chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Enjoy the bright flavors and textures in this dish!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Crispy Tofu

Tofu can be a great meat alternative, but it needs some care. First, press the tofu. This step removes extra water, which helps the tofu become crispy. It also helps the tofu soak up flavors better. After pressing, cut the tofu into cubes. Next, coat the cubes in cornstarch. This coating is key. It makes the outside crunchy when you fry it. Toss the cubes gently, ensuring each side is covered well.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

To elevate your dish, think about extra seasonings. You can add a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper. Some chili flakes can bring heat. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a bright taste too. Don’t skip fresh lime juice! It adds a punch that wakes up all the flavors. Squeeze it right before serving for the best taste.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to sides, pair your stir fry with jasmine rice or quinoa. Both make great bases for the sweet chili tofu. You can also serve it with a side salad for freshness. For a nice touch, use a big bowl. Serve the stir fry over rice and drizzle more sweet chili sauce on top. Finish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for a beautiful look.

Variations

Different Protein Options

You can switch tofu for other proteins. Chicken or shrimp works well in this dish. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cook them until golden brown. They add a nice flavor and texture. If you want a vegan option, try chickpeas or tempeh. Both are tasty and full of protein. They soak up flavors well, making your stir fry delicious.

Customizable Vegetable Choices

Feel free to use any fresh vegetables you like. Seasonal veggies add great taste. Try snap peas, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can mix and match depending on what you have. If you don’t like certain veggies, leave them out. The stir fry is flexible, so use what makes you happy!

Sauce Tweaks

You can change the sauce to fit your taste. If you want it sweeter, add more sweet chili sauce. For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or sriracha. You can also make your own sweet chili sauce. Just combine sugar, vinegar, and garlic for a quick version. This gives you control over the flavors!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, let your sweet chili tofu stir fry cool down. You can store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This way, it stays fresh longer. It keeps well for up to three days. Don’t leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you have a few options. The best way is to use a stovetop. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water. This keeps the tofu and veggies moist. Stir gently until it’s hot. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps maintain the texture.

Freezing Recommendations

You can freeze your stir fry if you want to save it for later. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, pack it into freezer-safe bags. Try to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave as mentioned above. Enjoy your tasty meal later!

FAQs

How long does it take to make Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry?

Making this dish takes about 25 minutes.

– Prep time is 15 minutes.

– Cooking time is around 10 minutes.

Can I use other sauces instead of sweet chili?

Yes, you can use other sauces.

– Try teriyaki sauce for a sweeter taste.

– Soy sauce gives a saltier kick.

– Hoisin sauce adds richness and depth.

Is Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry healthy?

Yes, this stir fry is healthy.

– Tofu is a great protein source.

– Bell peppers and broccoli are rich in vitamins.

– Fresh ginger and garlic boost your immune system.

– You can enjoy this dish without guilt.

In this post, we explored how to make Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry. We covered essential ingredients, like firm tofu, fresh veggies, and flavorful sauces. I shared step-by-step instructions, plus tips for crispy tofu and best serving suggestions. Remember, you can customize this dish with different proteins and veggies, making it your own. Enjoy your stir fry adventure! It’s tasty, easy, and great for any meal.

- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu - 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips - 1 cup broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced - 3 green onions, finely chopped, white and green parts separated - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated When I make sweet chili tofu stir fry, I start with firm tofu. It holds its shape and gives a great texture. I slice the tofu into bite-sized cubes, making it easy to eat. Adding fresh vegetables like red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot brings color and crunch. The green onions add a nice zing, while garlic and ginger give a warm flavor that makes this dish pop. - 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed The sauce is the star of this dish. Sweet chili sauce provides a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. I mix it with soy sauce for depth and freshly squeezed lime juice for brightness. This trio creates a sauce that clings to the tofu and veggies, making every bite flavorful. - Sesame seeds - Fresh cilantro For garnishes, I love using sesame seeds. They add a nice crunch and look great on the dish. Fresh cilantro gives a fresh taste that makes the stir fry even more vibrant. These garnishes are optional, but they really enhance the meal. This recipe is simple, quick, and full of flavors. You can customize it to your taste and enjoy a colorful dish on your plate. To start, drain the tofu block well. This step removes excess water. Next, wrap it in a clean towel. Place something heavy on top. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This helps the tofu become firmer. Now, cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over the tofu. Toss gently, coating all sides. This coating helps the tofu become crispy when cooked. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers. Carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side. Turn gently to avoid breaking the cubes. The tofu should be golden brown and crispy. Once done, take the tofu out and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Next, toss in the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and thinly sliced carrot. Stir-fry these veggies for 4-5 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure they cook evenly. The goal is vibrant colors and a slightly tender but still crisp texture. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the veggies. Stir-fry for 1 more minute. This step brings out their great aroma. Now, return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and fresh lime juice. Gently toss everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Finally, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish your stir fry with chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Enjoy the bright flavors and textures in this dish! Tofu can be a great meat alternative, but it needs some care. First, press the tofu. This step removes extra water, which helps the tofu become crispy. It also helps the tofu soak up flavors better. After pressing, cut the tofu into cubes. Next, coat the cubes in cornstarch. This coating is key. It makes the outside crunchy when you fry it. Toss the cubes gently, ensuring each side is covered well. To elevate your dish, think about extra seasonings. You can add a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper. Some chili flakes can bring heat. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a bright taste too. Don’t skip fresh lime juice! It adds a punch that wakes up all the flavors. Squeeze it right before serving for the best taste. When it comes to sides, pair your stir fry with jasmine rice or quinoa. Both make great bases for the sweet chili tofu. You can also serve it with a side salad for freshness. For a nice touch, use a big bowl. Serve the stir fry over rice and drizzle more sweet chili sauce on top. Finish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for a beautiful look. {{image_4}} You can switch tofu for other proteins. Chicken or shrimp works well in this dish. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cook them until golden brown. They add a nice flavor and texture. If you want a vegan option, try chickpeas or tempeh. Both are tasty and full of protein. They soak up flavors well, making your stir fry delicious. Feel free to use any fresh vegetables you like. Seasonal veggies add great taste. Try snap peas, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can mix and match depending on what you have. If you don’t like certain veggies, leave them out. The stir fry is flexible, so use what makes you happy! You can change the sauce to fit your taste. If you want it sweeter, add more sweet chili sauce. For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or sriracha. You can also make your own sweet chili sauce. Just combine sugar, vinegar, and garlic for a quick version. This gives you control over the flavors! After cooking, let your sweet chili tofu stir fry cool down. You can store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This way, it stays fresh longer. It keeps well for up to three days. Don’t leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours. To reheat, you have a few options. The best way is to use a stovetop. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water. This keeps the tofu and veggies moist. Stir gently until it’s hot. You can also use a microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps maintain the texture. You can freeze your stir fry if you want to save it for later. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, pack it into freezer-safe bags. Try to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave as mentioned above. Enjoy your tasty meal later! Making this dish takes about 25 minutes. - Prep time is 15 minutes. - Cooking time is around 10 minutes. Yes, you can use other sauces. - Try teriyaki sauce for a sweeter taste. - Soy sauce gives a saltier kick. - Hoisin sauce adds richness and depth. Yes, this stir fry is healthy. - Tofu is a great protein source. - Bell peppers and broccoli are rich in vitamins. - Fresh ginger and garlic boost your immune system. - You can enjoy this dish without guilt. In this post, we explored how to make Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry. We covered essential ingredients, like firm tofu, fresh veggies, and flavorful sauces. I shared step-by-step instructions, plus tips for crispy tofu and best serving suggestions. Remember, you can customize this dish with different proteins and veggies, making it your own. Enjoy your stir fry adventure! It’s tasty, easy, and great for any meal.

Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry

Looking for a delicious and easy meal? Try this Zesty Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry! Packed with crispy tofu, vibrant veggies, and a kick of sweet chili sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick dinner. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a dish that's bursting with flavor. Don't miss out on transforming your mealtime—click through to explore the recipe and delight your taste buds!
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Ingredients
  

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, thoroughly drained and pressed

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips

1 cup broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 medium carrot, thinly sliced

3 green onions, finely chopped, white and green parts separated

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated

1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed

Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions
 

Begin by cutting the pressed tofu into 1-inch bite-sized cubes. Place the tofu cubes in a bowl and sprinkle cornstarch over them. Toss gently until all sides of the tofu are well coated, ensuring a crispy texture once cooked.

    Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, turning gently, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

      In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and thinly sliced carrot. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are vibrant in color and slightly tender but still crisp.

        Incorporate the minced garlic and grated ginger into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir-fry for an additional minute, allowing the aroma to fill the air as the garlic and ginger become fragrant.

          Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

            Once heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the stir fry with the chopped green onions (both white and green parts) and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added crunch.

              Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Servings: 2-3

                - Presentation Tips: For a stunning presentation, serve the stir fry over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice or quinoa in a large serving bowl. Drizzle with extra sweet chili sauce and sprinkle additional sesame seeds and fresh cilantro on top for a vibrant and colorful finishing touch. Enjoy your meal!

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