10 Steps to Restaurant-Quality Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry at Home

Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry is a delightful and healthy dish that brings the savory-sweet flavors of teriyaki sauce together with the satisfying texture of tofu and crisp-tender vegetables. Originating from Japanese cuisine, teriyaki refers to a cooking technique where food is glazed with a soy sauce-based sauce. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and nutritious meal. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a staple in your kitchen.

Quick Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350 (approximate per serving)

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Tofu:

• 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sake (rice wine)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Tofu press
• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Press the Tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging and press it for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water. This will help it get crispy when cooked.
2. Prepare the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Place the tofu cubes in a bowl and gently toss with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Cook the Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sake, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce and stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, and sliced carrots. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
7. Combine Tofu and Vegetables: Add the cooked tofu back into the skillet with the stir-fried vegetables.
8. Add Teriyaki Sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
10. Serve: Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Pro Tips for Success

• Pressing is Key: Don’t skip pressing the tofu. It’s essential for achieving that crispy exterior.
• Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar in the teriyaki sauce to suit your taste preferences.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, or zucchini.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The teriyaki sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

How to Serve and Present

Serve your Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry hot over a bed of fluffy white rice or noodles. For an elegant presentation, sprinkle extra sesame seeds and green onions on top. A side of steamed edamame or a fresh cucumber salad complements the dish perfectly. Traditionally, this dish is served in a bowl, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Teriyaki Tofu: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.
• Teriyaki Tofu with Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple to the stir-fry for a tropical twist.
• Teriyaki Tofu Bowl: Create a balanced bowl with quinoa, avocado, and a variety of fresh toppings.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use silken tofu?
A: No, silken tofu is too soft and will fall apart. Extra-firm tofu is the best choice for this recipe.

Q: How do I press tofu without a tofu press?
A: Wrap the tofu in paper towels, place it on a plate, and put a heavy object (like a stack of books) on top. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

Q: Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?
A: Yes, you can substitute honey for brown sugar in the teriyaki sauce. Use the same amount.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: No, soy sauce contains gluten. You can use tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, to make this recipe gluten-free.

Q: Can I add protein besides tofu?
A: Absolutely! Consider adding chicken, shrimp, or beef for a different twist.

Conclusion

Mastering Teriyaki Tofu Stir-Fry at home is easier than you think! With these simple steps and pro tips, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that rivals your favorite restaurant. Don’t be afraid to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables and adjust the sauce to your liking. Share your results in the comments! You might also enjoy our recipes for Vegetable Pad Thai or Sesame Noodles.