This Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry is one of my favorite plant-based meals that’s both hearty and packed with flavor. I pan-fry tofu until it’s golden and crispy, then toss it with savory mushrooms, garlic, and a simple stir-fry sauce that brings everything together. It’s a quick, satisfying dinner I can make in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this stir-fry hits the perfect balance of taste and texture. The tofu is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the mushrooms bring a rich, umami depth. It’s a great way to get protein and veggies in one dish, and it’s easy to customize based on what I have in the fridge. Plus, it’s completely plant-based and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- firm or extra-firm tofu
- mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, or button)
- garlic cloves
- soy sauce or tamari
- sesame oil
- cornstarch
- green onions
- olive oil or neutral oil for frying
- optional: ginger, chili flakes, or hoisin sauce for extra flavor
Directions
- I press the tofu for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.
- I toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch to help them crisp up.
- In a large skillet or wok, I heat oil over medium-high heat and pan-fry the tofu until golden on all sides. Then I remove it and set aside.
- In the same pan, I add a bit more oil and sauté sliced mushrooms and garlic until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
- I return the tofu to the pan and add soy sauce, sesame oil, and any optional ingredients I want.
- I stir everything together until well coated and heated through.
- I garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot, usually over rice or noodles.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2-3 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for more color and nutrition. For a spicy version, I stir in chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. I also love finishing it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a splash of rice vinegar for brightness.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it for 1-2 minutes until heated through. I add a splash of water or extra sauce if it looks dry.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tofu?
Yes, but I get the best texture with firm or extra-firm tofu. Silken tofu is too soft for stir-frying.
Do I need to press the tofu?
I always press it to help it crisp up better and avoid sogginess.
What mushrooms work best?
I like using shiitake or cremini for deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms work too.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I often prep the tofu and chop the veggies ahead so cooking is faster when I’m ready to eat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! I just make sure to use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Conclusion
Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry is a simple, flavorful meal I turn to when I want something filling, healthy, and fast. It’s full of savory goodness, completely plant-based, and super versatile depending on what I have on hand. Whether I’m cooking for myself or someone else, this stir-fry always hits the spot.
PrintMushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry
Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry is a quick, plant-based dish featuring crispy tofu, savory mushrooms, and a flavorful stir-fry sauce. It’s a healthy, satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 cups mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, or button), sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil for frying
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Optional: 1 teaspoon grated ginger, 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes, or 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
Instructions
- Press tofu for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into cubes.
- Toss tofu cubes in cornstarch to coat evenly.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté mushrooms and garlic until mushrooms are browned and tender.
- Return tofu to the pan. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and any optional flavor additions (ginger, chili flakes, hoisin sauce).
- Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through and well coated.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
- Silken tofu is not recommended for this recipe.
- Add extra vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for more variety.
- Finish with sesame seeds or a splash of rice vinegar for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 of recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
