If you’re looking for a flavorful and healthy dish, this Spicy Thai Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry is the perfect choice. Crispy tofu is tossed with colorful vegetables and coated in a creamy, spicy peanut sauce that’s both bold and comforting. This plant-based meal is packed with protein, healthy fats, and tons of flavor—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ready to bring the heat? Let’s get started!
Spicy Thai Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry
Savor the flavors of this Spicy Thai Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry! Crispy tofu and fresh veggies tossed in a spicy, creamy peanut sauce for a delicious, plant-based meal.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
- 1 block 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch for crispy tofu
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 carrot julienned or sliced
- 1 zucchini sliced
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts roughly chopped (for garnish)
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce
- 1/4 cup peanut butter creamy or chunky
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce adjust for spice level
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 cup warm water to thin the sauce
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 tsp sesame oil for extra flavor
- Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish
- Sesame seeds for a crunchy topping
Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles.
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu
- Press the tofu to remove excess moisture by wrapping it in a kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for 10-15 minutes.
- Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch to coat evenly, which will help them crisp up when cooked.
Fry the Tofu
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of oil.
- Add the bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, and broccoli florets.
- Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the chopped green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, sriracha, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger.
- Add warm water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency (thick but pourable).
Combine and Serve
- Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the spicy peanut sauce over the tofu and veggies, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve the stir-fry over rice, quinoa, or noodles, and garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, or sesame seeds.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 bowl):
- Calories: 350-400
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 7g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less sriracha, or include red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- If you want a more tangy sauce, add an extra squeeze of lime juice or a splash of rice vinegar.
- You can add more veggies like snap peas, mushrooms, or spinach based on what’s in season or available.
Variations:
- Mild Peanut Sauce: Reduce the amount of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a milder flavor.
- Tofu-Free Stir-Fry: Replace the tofu with tempeh or chickpeas for a different protein source.
- Peanut-Free Sauce: Substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: Serve this stir-fry over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or rice noodles for a complete meal. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a light, fresh alternative.
- Make It Ahead: The spicy peanut sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. The stir-fry is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving, and add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep the stir-fry moist.
Wrapping It Up:
And there you have it—Spicy Thai Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry that’s flavorful, satisfying, and packed with plant-based protein! The crispy tofu, fresh vegetables, and creamy, spicy peanut sauce make this dish a must-try for any stir-fry lover. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to hit the spot. So grab your tofu, whip up that peanut sauce, and enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!
