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Quick Garlic Scape Tofu Stir-Fry

quick garlic scape tofu stir-fry - featured image

A quick, flavorful, and light tofu stir-fry featuring fresh garlic scapes, perfect for a nourishing weeknight dinner ready in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 1 cup chopped garlic scapes (about 56 scapes), fresh and crisp
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (avocado or canola oil recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced thin (for garnish)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place it on a plate and set a heavy object on top. Let it press for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. While tofu presses, wash and chop garlic scapes into 1-inch pieces. Mince garlic clove and grate fresh ginger if using. Slice green onions and set aside for garnish.
  3. Cut pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Place in a mixing bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Let marinate briefly.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a 10-inch non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  5. Add tofu cubes in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy on one side, then carefully flip to brown all sides. Total cooking time about 8-10 minutes.
  6. Push tofu to one side of the pan. Add sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped garlic scapes to the empty space. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until garlic scapes soften but remain slightly crunchy.
  7. Mix tofu and garlic scapes together. Add remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, honey or maple syrup (if using), and red pepper flakes. Toss gently to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions on top. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite grain.

Notes

Press tofu for at least 10 minutes to ensure crispiness. Use medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Prepare all ingredients before cooking as the stir-fry comes together quickly. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari. Honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a vegan option. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain tofu crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: tofu stir-fry, garlic scapes, quick dinner, easy recipe, plant-based, vegan, gluten-free option, weeknight meal