Vegan Zucchini Stir Fry With Tofu Delight

Craving a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal that comes together in a flash? Look no further than this Vegan Zucchini Stir Fry with Tofu Delight! Featuring golden, crispy tofu nestled amongst tender-crisp zucchini and other colorful veggies, all coated in a savory, umami-rich sauce, it’s a dish that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for tofu)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 3 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and sliced into 1/2-inch crescent moons
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
• 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish
• 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

1. **Prepare the Tofu:** After pressing your tofu, pat it very dry. Toss the cubed tofu with 1 tbsp cornstarch until lightly coated. In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the zucchini and continue to stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Do not overcook the zucchini; it should still have a slight bite.
3. **Add Aromatics:** Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the empty space and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. **Prepare the Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce/tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and water/vegetable broth until smooth.
5. **Combine and Thicken:** Pour the sauce over the vegetables in the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. This should only take 1-2 minutes.
6. **Finish and Serve:** Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and gently toss to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for another minute to heat through. Remove from heat.
7. Serve immediately over hot rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your Vegan Zucchini Stir Fry with Tofu Delight!