Fried Tofu and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
Deep-Fried Tofu, Atsuage and Bok Choy Easy Stir-Fry Recipe
An easy stir fry with fried tofu, tender bok choy, and a flavorful soy-based sauce. This simple vegetable dish comes together in just 20 minutes and pairs perfectly with a bowl of freshly cooked rice.
Tips for the Best Bok Choy and Fried Tofu
Use firm or fried tofu for the best texture—it holds up well during stir-frying.
If you prefer a mild flavor, replace tobanjan with miso paste, which I tried today for my littles.
For extra heat, add a drizzle of chili oil before serving if you like a spicy-lover!
This dish also works great with other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
RECIPE
Servings: 2-3
Time: 20 min
Ingredients:
1 block deep-fried tofu (atsuage)
3-4 bunch bok choy
1 tsp minced ginger
1 clove garlic
1 pc green onion
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp sake
1 tsp tobanjan (or miso for a mild version)
1/2 cup water
Instructions:
Prepare the tofu
Pour hot water over the fried tofu to remove excess oil.
Pat dry with a paper towel and cut into bite-size squares or rectangles.
Prep the vegetables
Cut the bok choy into quarters lengthwise.
Rinse the bok choy throughly to remove the dirt around the stems.
Mince the ginger and garlic, chop green onion for later use.
Mix the stir fry sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, tobanjan (or miso), and water until well combined.
Stir fry the tofu
Heat sesame oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the tofu pieces and stir fry for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden and coated with aromatics.
Add the sauce and bok choy
Add the sauce into the pan.
Add cut bok choy to the pan.
Cook with a lid for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the tofu and vegetables evenly.
Which Tofu did I use today?
Atsuage - fried tofu
I used this one from a Japanese market today,
if not finding, I’d use this tofu
What is Atsuage Tofu?
Atsuage (厚揚げ) is a type of Japanese tofu that has been deep-fried on the outside while remaining soft and silky inside. Unlike aburaage, which is thin and fully fried until hollow, atsuage is made from thick slices of firm tofu that are lightly deep-fried in oil. This process gives it a golden-brown, slightly crispy exterior and a tender, custardy texture inside.
Because it’s already cooked, atsuage is incredibly versatile and convenient - you can add it directly to stir-fries, soups, or simmered dishes without needing to press or drain it like regular tofu.
Why Atsuage is Great for Cooking
Absorbs Flavor: The fried surface soaks up sauces beautifully, making it ideal for dishes like stir-fried vegetables, simmered tofu bowls, or miso-based hot pots.
Rich and Satisfying: The frying process gives atsuage a slightly nutty aroma and hearty bite, adding substance to vegetarian or vegan meals.
Quick to Prepare: Since it’s pre-cooked, you can simply rinse it with hot water to remove excess oil, cut it into pieces, and toss it right into your pan.
Protein-Packed: Atsuage is a great source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, making it a nourishing ingredient to keep on hand for quick weeknight meals.
Cooking Tips for Atsuage
Prep Tip: Pouring hot water over atsuage helps remove extra oil and refreshes its flavor.
Storage Tip: Store unopened atsuage in the refrigerator, and once opened, use within 2–3 days.
Serving Ideas: Try it grilled with soy sauce and grated ginger, simmered with daikon, or in stir-fries like this Bok Choy and Fried Tofu Stir Fry.
I have previously shared my experience visiting a local Tofu factory in Japan! Read Here
How to Clean Bok Choy
Bok choy often traps dirt or sand between its stalks, so cleaning it thoroughly makes a big difference in your dish. I prefer to rinse the whole bok choy first, then cut it into quarters or halves, and rinse again under running water to wash away any grit hidden near the base. Gently shake off the excess water or pat dry with a clean towel before cooking.
This method keeps the leaves crisp and ensures every bite of your bok choy stir fry tastes clean and fresh.
