Stir-Fried Sweet Chili Tofu

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Stir-Fried Sweet Chili Tofu is a vibrant, flavorful dish that pairs the hearty texture of crispy tofu with a sweet and spicy chili sauce. The tofu is pan-fried until golden and crisp on the outside, then tossed in a luscious sweet chili sauce that perfectly balances heat and sweetness. The sauce glazes each piece of tofu, creating an irresistible bite that’s both savory and satisfying.

I first made this dish when I wanted to try something different with tofu, and it quickly became a favorite! The crispy tofu contrasts beautifully with the rich, tangy sauce, and the sweetness from the chili sauce gives it a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—you can add in vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to make it a complete meal. Served with steamed rice or noodles, Stir-Fried Sweet Chili Tofu is a quick, satisfying dish that’s sure to please both tofu lovers and newcomers alike!

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Vegetarian meals
  • Meal prep
  • Asian-inspired dishes
  • Tofu lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Stir-Fried Sweet Chili Tofu will become your favorite dish:

  • Sweet and Spicy Sauce: The balance of sweet chili sauce with a hint of spice creates a perfect flavor profile.
  • Crispy Tofu: The tofu is pan-fried to crispy perfection, offering a satisfying texture in every bite.
  • Colorful Veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, and onions brighten up the dish with both flavor and color.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy days when you need a fast, tasty meal.
  • Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap or add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious meat-free alternative for those looking to eat less animal products.
  • Balanced Meal: With protein from tofu and fiber from vegetables, this dish is a complete meal.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This stir-fry keeps well, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners.
  • Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free without compromising taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 14g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

For the Tofu:

  • 1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

The Stir-Fry Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • ½ onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Garnish:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro

Ingredient Highlights

  • Firm Tofu: Provides a sturdy texture that crisps up beautifully when pan-fried.
  • Sweet Chili Sauce: The key to this dish’s deliciously tangy and sweet flavor profile.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the stir-fry sauce.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Crisp vegetables like peppers and carrots provide color and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Tofu:

  1. Press the Tofu: Place the tofu block between paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth and press down to remove excess moisture. Cut tofu into cubes.
  2. Coat with Cornstarch: In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch and salt to coat evenly.
  3. Fry the Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu cubes in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Stir-Fry Sauce:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic until smooth.

Cook the Vegetables:

  1. Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add bell peppers, carrots, and onions, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  2. Add Sauce: Pour the stir-fry sauce over the vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.

Combine the Tofu and Sauce:

  1. Add Tofu: Gently fold the crispy tofu into the stir-fry mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to warm through.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Stir-Fried Sweet Chili Tofu:

  • With Steamed Rice: Serve the stir-fry over jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
  • In Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap the tofu for a fun, handheld dish.
  • With Noodles: Toss the tofu with your favorite noodles like rice noodles or soba.
  • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled or baked fish for a balanced meal.
  • For Meal Prep: Pack it into containers with rice or quinoa for a quick lunch or dinner.
  • As a Salad Topper: Add the stir-fry to a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
  • With Fried Eggs: Top the stir-fry with a fried egg for extra protein.
  • In Burrito Wraps: Roll the stir-fry in a tortilla for a fusion meal.
  • With Avocado: Add slices of avocado for creaminess and flavor.
  • For Special Occasions: Serve as part of an Asian-inspired dinner spread with other stir-fries.

Additional Tips

  • Press Tofu Well: The firmer the tofu, the better it will crisp up when fried.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the tofu in batches to ensure it crisps evenly.
  • Customize the Veggies: Add any veggies you like—mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas work well.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
  • Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Sweet Chili Tofu: Add extra chili flakes or sriracha for more heat.
  • Vegetable Variations: Use broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn in place of the bell peppers and carrots.
  • Vegan Version: This recipe is already vegan, but you can use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free version.
  • Cashew Tofu Stir-Fry: Add a handful of roasted cashews for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Sweet and Sour Tofu: Swap the sweet chili sauce for a homemade sweet and sour sauce for a different twist.
  • Maple-Glazed Tofu: Replace sweet chili sauce with maple syrup for a naturally sweet alternative.

Special Equipment

  • Non-Stick Pan: For frying the tofu without sticking.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing vegetables evenly.
  • Mixing Bowl: For tossing the tofu in cornstarch.
  • Whisk: To mix the stir-fry sauce.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use extra-firm tofu instead of firm tofu?
    Yes, extra-firm tofu will also work well for this recipe and will be even crispier.
  2. How long does the stir-fry keep in the fridge?
    Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  3. Can I freeze this dish?
    While tofu can be frozen, the texture may change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or as leftovers.
  4. Can I use another type of sauce?
    Yes, you can substitute sweet chili sauce with hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce for different flavors.
  5. How can I make the tofu crispier?
    Try double frying the tofu or using an air fryer for an even crispier result.
  6. Can I make this dish in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the tofu and sauce in advance and stir-fry the vegetables just before serving.
  7. Can I make it without soy sauce?
    Yes, use tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
  8. What kind of rice should I serve it with?
    Jasmine rice or brown rice pairs perfectly with this stir-fry.
  9. Can I add other protein sources?
    You can add edamame, tempeh, or even chickpeas as an additional protein source.
  10. Is this dish spicy?
    It has a mild spice from the chili sauce, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more chili flakes or sriracha.

Conclusion

Stir-Fried Sweet Chili Tofu is a flavorful, savory, and slightly sweet dish that pairs crispy, golden tofu with a tangy sweet chili sauce. The tofu is pan-fried until crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside, then tossed in a flavorful sauce made with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of lime or vinegar for brightness.

To make stir-fried sweet chili tofu, press and cube tofu, coat it in cornstarch, and pan-fry until crispy. Set aside. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and veggies, then add sweet chili and soy sauce. Toss tofu back in and coat with the sauce. Serve over rice or noodles, and garnish with fresh herbs. This dish is a quick, easy vegetarian meal or a great addition to an Asian-inspired spread.

I can’t wait to see how your Stir-Fried Sweet Chili Tofu turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your colorful, delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!