Dinner

Basil Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe

Name: Basil Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 shallot or small red onion, halved and sliced; 1 red bell pepper, halved, seeds removed and finely diced; 4 ounces green beans, trimmed and thinly sliced into ½-inch pieces; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 2 to 3 Thai chiles, finely chopped; 2 (14- to 16-ounce) packages extra-firm tofu, drained and broken into irregular 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce; 2 tablespoons lime juice, plus 1 lime, quartered, to serve; 1 cup Thai, holy or sweet basil leaves; Salt, ½ teaspoon for seasoning; 2 tablespoons vegetable or grapeseed oil; Cooked jasmine or short-grain white rice, to serve

ByElena Hart February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

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Introduction

This vibrant Basil Tofu stir-fry is a perfect balance of fresh herbs, spicy chiles, and savory soy sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful plant-based dish that pairs beautifully with jasmine rice for a satisfying meal.

A round black pan with a wooden handle is filled with a tofu stir-fry that has about three layers: the first layer consists of light brown tofu cubes with a slightly crispy texture, the second layer has finely chopped green beans and red bell peppers mixed evenly throughout, and the third layer shows fresh green basil leaves scattered on top, adding a bright green color and leafy texture. Next to the pan, on a white marbled surface, there is a white bowl filled with fluffy white rice, showing a soft and smooth texture. A large silver spoon rests beside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Vegetable or grapeseed oil
1 shallot or small red onion, halved and sliced

1 red bell pepper, halved, seeds removed and finely diced
4 ounces green beans, trimmed and thinly sliced into ½-inch pieces

Salt
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 to 3 Thai chiles, finely chopped
2 (14- to 16-ounce) packages extra-firm tofu, drained and broken into irregular 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
2 tablespoons lime juice, plus 1 lime, quartered, to serve
1 cup Thai, holy or sweet basil leaves

Cooked jasmine or short-grain white rice, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a wok or a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the shallot and toss until softened, about 1 minute.
Step 2: Add the red bell pepper and green beans, season with ½ teaspoon of salt, and toss for 1 minute more.

Step 3: Stir in the garlic and Thai chiles and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add the tofu, soy sauce, and dark soy sauce. Stir-fry until the tofu is well-coated and heated through, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in the lime juice and add the basil leaves. Toss everything together until the basil wilts, about 30 seconds.

Step 6: Serve the basil tofu hot with cooked jasmine or short-grain white rice and lime wedges on the side for extra zing.

Tips & Variations

Press the tofu before cooking to remove excess moisture for a firmer texture.
Swap Thai chiles for milder peppers if you prefer less heat.

Try adding a handful of snap peas or baby corn for more crunch.
Use coconut oil for a subtle tropical flavor variation.

Storage

Store leftover basil tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce during reheating can help maintain moisture.

How to Serve

A black skillet filled with stir-fried tofu pieces that are light brown with a slightly crispy texture, mixed with bright green basil leaves scattered throughout, small chunks of red chili peppers, and chopped green beans. The tofu and vegetables are layered evenly inside the skillet, giving a colorful and fresh look. To the right of the skillet is a white bowl filled with fluffy white rice, and beside it is a large silver spoon resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular basil instead of Thai or holy basil?

Yes, regular sweet basil works well and provides a mild, fresh flavor, though it won’t have the same distinct herbal notes as Thai or holy basil.

How do I keep the tofu from falling apart while cooking?

Using extra-firm tofu and gently breaking it into larger pieces helps maintain its shape. Avoid stirring too vigorously and cook over medium-high heat to sear the tofu quickly.