Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Soy and Sesame

Name: Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Soy and Sesame
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: East Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 250 g long-grain rice; 300 g firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 1 whole small broccoli, cut into florets; 1 whole carrot, thinly sliced; 1 whole bell pepper, sliced; 1 tbsp neutral oil; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 1 tsp mustard seeds; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Crisp-tender vegetables and golden tofu tossed with soy, sesame and a touch of mustard seed.

By Hez ArslanUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 30 minMakes 4 servings

Jump to Recipe

This quick vegetarian stir-fry uses firm tofu, broccoli, carrot and bell pepper with soy, sesame and mustard seed. The source combines sesame and olive oils; this version uses a high-heat neutral oil for cooking and adds toasted sesame oil at the end for aroma. Press the tofu first so it browns, then cook the vegetables briefly over high heat to keep them crisp-tender. Serve over rice and adjust the soy sauce to taste. Cook rice according to package directions and keep covered. Heat neutral oil in a wok or large skillet. Pat tofu dry and cook in a single layer until golden on several sides; transfer to a plate. Add broccoli and carrot with 2 tablespoons water. Stir-fry 2 minutes, then add pepper and cook 2 minutes more until crisp-tender.

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Soy and Sesame

How to tell when it is ready

Tofu is browned and vegetables remain crisp-tender.

Tips

Press tofu to remove excess water.
Cut vegetables before heating the wok.
Cook in batches if the pan is crowded.
Add toasted sesame oil off the heat.

Troubleshooting

If cooking is uneven, cut pieces to a similar size.
If the flavour is too strong, adjust with a little of the main liquid.

Substitutions

Use a similar neutral cooking oil if needed.
Choose a suitable broth or stock for the recipe.

Variations

Adjust herbs and seasoning to taste.
Add a little chilli for gentle heat.

Serving suggestions

Serve over steamed rice.
Add sliced spring onions.
Offer chilli crisp.
Pair with cucumber salad.

Make ahead

Measure and prepare ingredients in advance; complete cooking shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Contains soy and sesame. Check soy sauce ingredients for allergens.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly; finish close to serving.

How should I store vegetarian tofu and vegetable stir-fry?

Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and chill leftovers without delay.

About the author

Hez Arslan

Hez Arslan owns feastdelights.com and also writes practical recipes for everyday home cooking, from familiar Ukrainian dishes to meals inspired by kitchens around the world. His clear, step-by-step guidance helps home cooks approach each recipe with confidence.

Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Soy and Sesame