There’s something incredibly satisfying about the way spicy peanut sauce clings to crispy tofu, creating a perfect balance of heat and creaminess in every bite. After weeks of craving bold flavors but wanting something quick and homemade, I finally nailed this Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry that’s bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just tired of the same old takeout, this dish brings vibrant, comforting warmth to your plate without any fuss. And the best part? You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your mood. Let me walk you through this crowd-pleasing, protein-packed meal that’ll have you tossing out fast food forever.
Why choose Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry?
Bold Flavor Explosion: This dish packs a punch with its creamy, spicy peanut sauce that elevates crispy tofu to new heights. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings. Customizable: Swap veggies or tweak spice levels to suit your taste. Protein-Packed: A satisfying, plant-based meal that fuels your day. Comforting Yet Fresh: It’s the cozy stir-fry that breaks free from boring takeout routines!
Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry Ingredients
For the Tofu and Sauce
- Firm tofu – Press well to achieve crispy edges that hold the spicy peanut sauce perfectly.
- Peanut butter – Use creamy for a smooth, rich base that coats every bite in bold flavor.
- Soy sauce – Adds umami depth and balances the richness of the peanut butter.
- Rice vinegar – Brightens the sauce with a subtle tang to cut through the creaminess.
- Maple syrup – A touch of sweetness to mellow out the heat and round out the sauce.
- Sriracha or chili paste – Adjust to taste for your preferred spice level in this spicy peanut tofu stir-fry.
- Garlic cloves – Minced fresh garlic adds a fragrant punch that complements the sauce beautifully.
- Ginger – Grated ginger delivers warming zest that lifts the whole dish.
For the Veggies
- Broccoli florets – Crisp and vibrant, they bring lovely texture and freshness.
- Bell peppers – Choose any color for sweetness and colorful crunch.
- Carrots – Thinly sliced for a natural sweetness and slight bite.
- Green onions – Chopped for garnish and a sharp finish that brightens each mouthful.
- Sesame seeds – Toasted for an optional nutty sprinkle that adds texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry
- Press & Cube Tofu: Press out excess moisture for crispier edges (at least 15 minutes), then cut the block into 1-inch cubes and pat dry with paper towels.
- Cook Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown on all sides.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth and creamy.
- Stir-Fry Veggies: Add broccoli florets, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry 4–5 minutes until vegetables are vibrant green, slightly tender, and still crisp.
- Combine & Simmer: Return tofu to the pan and pour sauce over everything. Stir gently and cook 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and clings to tofu and veggies.
- Garnish & Serve: Transfer stir-fry to bowls and sprinkle with green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Optional: Add a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry ahead of time can save you valuable minutes on busy weeknights! You can prep the tofu by pressing and cubing it up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The peanut sauce can also be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just stir well before using to ensure consistency. Additionally, chop your veggies ahead of time, keeping them in a separate container in the fridge to keep them crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply follow the cooking steps—pan-fry the tofu, stir-fry the veggies, and combine everything with the sauce for delicious results that are just as tasty as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry
- Press Tofu Thoroughly: Remove as much moisture as possible by pressing tofu at least 15 minutes to achieve crispy, golden edges that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Balance Your Sauce: Taste and adjust the spicy peanut tofu stir-fry sauce as you whisk—adding more maple syrup if too spicy, or extra sriracha if you crave heat.
- Cook Veggies Just Right: Stir-fry veggies until tender-crisp to keep their vibrant color and satisfying crunch, avoiding sogginess that dulls the dish.
- Use High Heat for Tofu: Sear tofu over medium-high heat for a crispy crust; overcrowding the pan cools it down and causes steaming instead of browning.
- Customize Your Spice: Start with less chili paste, then increase gradually to your preferred heat level—this way, your stir-fry won’t overwhelm your taste buds.
- Garnish Last: Sprinkle green onions and toasted sesame seeds just before serving to preserve their fresh texture and nutty flavor punch.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freezer: Freeze the stir-fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring the tofu stays crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Meal Prep: This spicy peanut tofu stir-fry is ideal for meal prep! Cook a larger batch, let it cool, and store individual portions for effortless lunches throughout the week.
Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry Variations
Feel free to get creative with your stir-fry and make it truly your own with these delightful twists.
- Crunchy Toppings: Add chopped peanuts or cashews for an extra layer of crunch that enhances each bite.
- Veggie Swap: Substitute broccoli with snap peas or bok choy for a fresh take that brings a nice crunch.
- Noodle Addition: Toss in cooked rice noodles or quinoa for a heartier meal that satisfies even the hungriest appetites.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or cilantro at the end for a fragrant burst of flavor that brightens the dish.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil just before serving.
- Sweet Twist: Use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a different nutty flavor that’s equally delightful.
- Coconut Creaminess: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a rich, creamy consistency that elevates the sauce’s depth.
- Vegan Boost: Top with tofu and sesame-marinated edamame for an added protein punch and vibrant color contrast.
What to Serve with Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry?
Create a delightful meal by pairing your stir-fry with vibrant and complementary sides!
- Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it absorbs the rich peanut sauce while adding a gentle texture that ties the meal together.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumber, lime, and mint that cuts through the richness of the stir-fry, adding a cooling crunch.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa enhances the heat of the dish, bringing a burst of tropical sweetness with every bite!
- Sesame Noodles: These flavorful noodles provide a delightful chewiness, making your meal more filling and balancing with their savory notes.
- Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame offers a fun snacking texture and a protein kick that complements the tofu effortlessly.
- Tofu Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh herbs and veggies create a lovely textural contrast that enriches your dining experience!
- Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea helps cleanse the palate and brings a soothing element to this bold dish.
- Coconut Chia Pudding: For dessert, this creamy, slightly sweet treat contrasts nicely with the spiciness, offering a light yet luxurious finish to the meal.
Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my tofu is the right firmness for this stir-fry?
I recommend using firm or extra-firm tofu for this recipe because it holds its shape well and crisps up beautifully. Avoid soft or silken tofu, which tends to crumble when cooked and won’t give you that satisfying texture.
Can I store leftover Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry in the fridge, and for how long?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. To keep the tofu crispy, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water rather than using the microwave, which can make it soggy.
Is it possible to freeze this stir-fry, and what’s the best way?
Yes, definitely. Freeze your Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat to refresh the tofu’s crispiness.
My sauce turned out too spicy—how can I fix that?
No worries! Balance the heat by whisking in extra maple syrup or a splash of coconut milk to mellow the spice. Adding a small squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the flavors and soften the intensity. Taste as you go, and adjust in small increments—you’ll find your perfect flavor harmony.
Is this dish safe for pets or people with peanut allergies?
Since peanuts are a main ingredient, I do not recommend serving this to anyone with peanut allergies or sharing leftovers with pets. For a peanut-free version, try swapping peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini, keeping in mind the flavor will change slightly but will still be delicious!
Best Spicy Peanut Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe for Bold Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Press out excess moisture from the tofu for at least 15 minutes and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Pat the tofu cubes dry with paper towels.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook tofu cubes for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
- In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sriracha, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are vibrant and crisp.
- Return tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer to bowls, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot.
