Tofu Stir-Fry with Mushrooms – Quick & Flavorful Plant-Based Dinner

Why Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry Is a Weeknight Winner

When the day’s been long and your energy is low, Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry is the kind of dinner that saves the night. It’s fast, flavorful, and packed with plant-based protein—everything you want in a weeknight meal. With crispy tofu, savory mushrooms, and a glossy, umami-rich sauce, it’s a dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

This stir-fry comes together in under 30 minutes and is endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge or planning a meatless Monday, it’s a reliable go-to. It’s also perfect for meal prep, reheats like a dream, and pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

So grab your wok or skillet, press that tofu, and let’s get cooking. This is the kind of recipe that turns humble ingredients into something truly crave-worthy.

What Is Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry?

Mushroom and Tofu Stir-Fry is a quick, satisfying dish that brings together crispy tofu, umami-packed mushrooms, and a savory-sweet sauce in one sizzling pan. It’s a staple in many Asian-inspired kitchens, especially those drawing from Chinese and Japanese cooking traditions.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You start with tofu—firm or extra-firm for the best texture—and pair it with mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or oyster. Add a few aromatics like garlic and ginger, toss in your favorite veggies, and finish with a glossy sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of sweetness.

It’s a dish that’s easy to adapt to your tastes or what’s in your fridge. Whether you like it spicy, saucy, or loaded with greens, this stir-fry is a plant-based powerhouse that’s as comforting as it is quick.

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful stir-fry:

Tofu

• 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
• Pressed for 10–15 minutes and cubed

Mushrooms

• 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster, or a mix)

Vegetables (Optional)

• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas or broccoli florets

Aromatics

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 scallions, sliced (white and green parts separated)

Sauce

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Optional Add-ins

• Red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp vegetarian oyster sauce (for extra umami)

Tip: Pressing tofu removes excess moisture, helping it crisp up beautifully when pan-fried.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Tofu Press tofu for 10–15 minutes using a tofu press or by wrapping it in paper towels and placing a heavy object on top. Cut into 1-inch cubes and toss lightly with cornstarch.
2. Cook the Mushrooms Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until golden. Stir and cook another 2–3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Crisp the Tofu Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add tofu cubes and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry Veggies (Optional) Add bell pepper, snap peas, or broccoli to the pan. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
5. Add Aromatics Add garlic, ginger, and white parts of scallions. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Combine & Sauce Return tofu and mushrooms to the pan. Pour in sauce and cornstarch slurry. Toss everything together and cook for 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats ingredients.
7. Finish & Serve Garnish with sesame seeds and green scallions. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Tip: Use a large skillet or wok to ensure even heat and quick cooking.

Taste & Texture Profile

This stir-fry delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors:

• Crispy tofu offers a satisfying bite, while the mushrooms are tender and meaty, soaking up the savory sauce.
• The sauce is umami-rich, slightly sweet, and deeply flavorful thanks to soy sauce, sesame oil, and aromatics.
• Optional veggies add freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the tofu and mushrooms.
• Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth, while scallions and sesame seeds add brightness and texture.

The result is a dish that’s light yet satisfying, simple yet complex, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and next-day leftovers.