Honey Garlic Tofu Stir Fry

Name: Honey Garlic Tofu Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 2 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 carrot, julienned; Green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Honey Garlic Tofu Stir Fry because it’s a quick and easy dish that bursts with flavor. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a perfect sauce that coats the crispy tofu and vibrant vegetables. I often whip this up as a weeknight dinner because it not only tastes delicious but is also packed with nutrients. This recipe is great for meal prep, and it can be served over rice or in a wrap, making it versatile and satisfying for everyone.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:35:35.886Z

When I first experimented with Honey Garlic Tofu Stir Fry, I was amazed by how quickly everything came together. The key is to ensure the tofu is well-pressed and seasoned before frying. This way, it absorbs the flavors of the honey garlic sauce beautifully. I love using bell peppers and broccoli in this dish because they add a nice crunch and color.

One of my favorite tips is to let the sauce simmer a little longer for a thicker consistency, which enhances the overall flavor. The balance of sweetness and savory notes makes this stir fry a crowd-pleaser. I often add crushed red pepper to give it a slight kick, creating a delicious harmony of flavors.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously sweet and savory sauce with a hint of garlic
Crispy tofu that's satisfying and filling
A colorful mix of vegetables that make it visually appealing
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy nights

Mastering the Tofu

Pressing the tofu is a crucial step in this recipe to ensure that it can absorb the honey garlic sauce effectively and attain a crispy texture. I usually recommend pressing the tofu for at least 15-20 minutes, wrapped in a clean kitchen towel with a weight on top. If you want to save time, look for pre-pressed tofu, which can cut your prep down drastically.

Choosing the right tofu is equally important. Firm or extra-firm tofu works best, providing the structure needed to hold up during frying. Silken or soft tofu will not provide the same crispy finish. If you prefer a plant-based protein, tempeh can be a great substitute, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Perfecting the Sauce

The honey garlic sauce is the star of this dish, and balancing its flavors is key. Using a high-quality soy sauce will enhance the umami factor beautifully. If you're looking to reduce sugar, agave syrup or maple syrup can be excellent substitutes for honey, accommodating vegan preferences without sacrificing flavor.

To achieve a beautifully glossy sauce that coats the tofu and veggies well, cook it just until it thickens slightly—about 2-3 minutes after adding to the pan. Stir consistently to prevent burning, and if it becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a tablespoon of water.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious stir fry, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
Green onions for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a delightful meal that's sure to please everyone!

Instructions

Here's how to make an amazing Honey Garlic Tofu Stir Fry:

Prepare the Tofu

Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. In a bowl, mix the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.

Coat the Tofu

Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu cubes and toss gently to coat evenly.

Fry the Tofu

Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Stir Fry the Veggies

In the same skillet, add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes or until tender yet crisp.

Combine and Serve

Return the tofu to the skillet, pour the honey garlic sauce over everything, and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Honey Garlic Tofu Stir Fry!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this stir fry by adding your favorite vegetables or using different sauces to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Garlic Tofu Stir Fry can be served over a fluffy bed of jasmine or brown rice, but don't overlook the option of using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. If you’re feeling adventurous, wrap the mixture in a whole grain tortilla or lettuce leaves for a fresh take on a wrap.

To add more depth of flavor, consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also elevate its taste profile. Pair this stir-fry with a side of miso soup or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

This dish is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make a double batch, the flavors only get better as they sit, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for lunch.

When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to ensure the tofu doesn't dry out. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, as it may make the tofu rubbery. A couple of minutes on medium power should do the trick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of protein instead of tofu?

Yes, you can substitute tofu with chicken, shrimp, or tempeh if you're looking for variation.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as it only contains vegetable-based ingredients, including tofu.

→ What can I serve with this stir fry?

You can serve this stir fry over steamed rice, quinoa, or in a wrap for a delicious meal.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tofu and chop the vegetables in advance, but it's best to stir fry just before serving for freshness.