Fried Tofu and Greens

Crispy, golden brown tofu meets tender, garlicky greens in this quick and flavorful recipe for Fried Tofu and Greens. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish combines marinated, cornstarch-coated tofu fried to perfection with a vibrant mix of sautéed kale, spinach, or Swiss chard, infused with aromatic garlic and ginger. A drizzle of sesame oil and a dash of red pepper flakes add layers of savory and spicy notes, while optional sesame seeds provide a satisfying crunch. Ready in just 35 minutes, this high-protein, plant-based dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete and wholesome dining experience. Keywords: crispy tofu recipe, sautéed greens, vegan dinner ideas, tofu stir-fry.

Nutriscore Rating: 86/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 14 ounces firm tofu
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon ginger
• 8 cups mixed greens (e.g., kale, spinach, or Swiss chard)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Press the tofu: Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (like a skillet or can) on top. Let it press for 10-15 minutes to remove excess water.

Step 2

Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into 1-inch cubes.

Step 3

In a small bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce to coat, then sprinkle cornstarch evenly over the tofu. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are coated.

Step 4

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes to the skillet in a single layer and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.

Step 6

Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Add both to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7

Add the mixed greens to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic and ginger. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the greens are wilted and tender.

Step 8

Drizzle the sesame oil over the greens and sprinkle with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 9

Return the fried tofu to the skillet and toss gently with the greens to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through.

Step 10

Transfer the Fried Tofu and Greens to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	700.8 grams (700.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	659

Total Fat 35.90g	46%
Saturated Fat 4.60g	23%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.90g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1949mg	85%
Total Carbohydrate 48.70g	18%
Dietary Fiber 16.80g	60%
Total Sugars 7.70g
Protein 54.40g	109%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1067mg	82%
Iron 14mg	76%
Potassium 1959mg	42%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.9%

Protein: 29.6%

Carbs: 26.5%