Name: Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegan Fusion
Ingredients: 1 block extra firm tofu or super firm tofu; 1 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos; 2 tsp nutritional yeast; 1 cup sweet potato, cut into 1/2 inch pieces; 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick half moons; 1 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 tsp cumin seeds; 1 small onion, diced into small pieces; 2 inch fresh ginger root, grated; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp garlic chili sauce; 1/2 cup cooked small lentils or canned lentils; 1 (13.5 oz) can light coconut milk; 1/2 bouillon cube or 1/2 tsp Better Than Bouillon Vegetable Paste (optional)

If you’re craving a comforting, vibrant dish that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas, this Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender tofu cubes roasted to perfection with a luscious blend of sweet potato, zucchini, and warming spices, all simmered in creamy coconut milk, this stew is a harmonious celebration of textures and flavors. It’s simple to prepare but utterly satisfying, perfect for cozy dinners that feel like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center right, there is a white rectangular plate filled with golden-brown crispy cubes that look like fried tofu. Around it are several small bowls: a white bowl of peeled chopped sweet potatoes with orange tones in the bottom left, a clear glass bowl with cooked lentils at the top left, a white bowl with finely chopped garlic or ginger at the top center, a small white bowl containing brown cumin seeds near the bottom center, a white bowl with mixed ground spices showing orange, beige, and green colors near the middle left, and two black bowls, one filled with deep red tomato paste and the other with thick dark red sauce with visible chunks, in the right center. On the far right, there is a can with white foam on top. The entire setup is neat and well-lit. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, color, and nourishment in your stew. Each one plays its part in creating that perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and richness that makes this dish so memorable.

Extra firm or super firm tofu: Choose a sturdy tofu to hold up well during roasting and absorb all the savory marinade.
Gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos: Adds a salty umami depth that enhances the tofu’s mild flavor.
Nutritional yeast: Brings a subtle cheesy note and boosts the savory profile without dairy.
Sweet potato, cubed: Adds natural sweetness and soft texture that contrasts beautifully with the tofu.
Zucchini, sliced: Introduces freshness and a tender bite, balancing the stew’s richness.
Olive oil: Used both for roasting and sautéing, giving a silky mouthfeel and helping to bloom the spices.
Cumin seeds: Toast to release their earthy, slightly citrusy aroma.
Small onion, diced: Builds a foundational savory sweetness when gently cooked.
Fresh ginger root, grated: Adds a bright, zesty kick pivotal to this stew’s character.
Garlic cloves: Deliver that pungent warmth that pairs perfectly with ginger.
Ground coriander and turmeric: These spices introduce a gentle floral warmth and beautiful golden color.
Tomato paste: Concentrates savory tomato flavor to deepen the stew’s base.
Garlic chili sauce: Introduces a subtle heat and complexity to awaken your palate.
Cooked small lentils (or canned): Adds heartiness and protein, enriching the stew’s texture.
Light coconut milk: Creates a creamy, luscious sauce that ties all ingredients together.
Bouillon cube or vegetable paste (optional): Enhances the savory depth without overpowering the natural flavors.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Tofu

Start by pressing your tofu if it’s extra firm to remove any excess moisture, which helps it get crispy when roasted. Cut it into even cubes to ensure each piece roasts uniformly. Toss the cubes in a mix of gluten-free soy sauce and nutritional yeast inside a sealed container; this simple marinade infuses your tofu with umami and a slight cheesy flavor that deepens during roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Tofu and Vegetables

Arrange your tofu cubes alongside cubed sweet potatoes and thick zucchini slices on a lined baking tray. Give the vegetables a light coating of olive oil to help them caramelize beautifully in the oven. Roast everything at 400°F, flipping halfway through, so that each component achieves golden edges and tender centers. This roasting step brings out the natural sweetness and adds a lovely textural contrast.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

While the tofu and veggies roast, heat the remaining olive oil in a large pan and toast cumin seeds until fragrant, waking up their aromatic oils. Add diced onions with a pinch of salt to soften and release their sweetness, creating the essential flavor foundation for your stew. Follow with freshly grated ginger and minced garlic, stirring just until their sharp freshness fills the kitchen—these are the heart of this Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe.

Step 4: Layer Spices and Sauces

Mix in ground coriander, turmeric, and tomato paste, stirring well to coat every ingredient with their vibrant colors and earthy nuances. Adding garlic chili sauce brings in a gentle heat that enlivens the dish, complementing the warmth from the spices perfectly.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Pour the coconut milk into your pan along with the lentils and optional bouillon for added depth. Stir everything together until the stew comes to a gentle simmer. Finally, fold in your roasted tofu and sweet potatoes, letting the stew cook for another 5 to 10 minutes so all flavors meld and the sauce thickens into a rich, comforting hug in a bowl.

How to Serve Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe

A close-up of a black pan filled with a creamy orange sauce mixed with small orange vegetable pieces and green seeds. On top, there are many golden-brown tofu cubes scattered across the sauce. A wooden spatula rests in the pan, partially touching the tofu and sauce. The background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten your bowl with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of freshness. A few toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed peanuts add a delightful crunch that contrasts the stew’s creaminess, amplifying the eating experience.

Side Dishes

This stew is fantastic on its own but pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice or warm naan bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce. For more fiber and texture, enjoy it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this stew in individual rustic bowls, layering it over a bed of quinoa for added protein, or even spooning it into warm pita pockets for a delicious fusion twist. Each serving method brings out different aspects of this versatile Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover stew in an airtight container placed in the fridge. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it a perfect meal prep candidate for busy days.

Freezing

You can freeze the stew for up to 2 months without losing its comforting taste. Transfer it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to restore the creamy texture and evenly warm the tofu. Add a splash of water or coconut milk if the stew thickened too much in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of gluten-free?

Absolutely! Regular soy sauce works fine if you don’t have gluten sensitivities. It will add that rich umami flavor just as well.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe is completely vegan, using plant-based ingredients only, including coconut milk and nutritional yeast for creaminess and depth.

What can I substitute for sweet potato?

If you’re out of sweet potatoes, butternut squash or carrots make excellent alternatives as they offer similar sweetness and texture once cooked.

How spicy is the stew?

The garlic chili sauce adds a gentle warmth that can be adjusted based on your preference. You can omit it for a milder stew or add more for extra heat.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Definitely! The flavors deepen when it sits for a day, making this recipe a perfect make-ahead meal to enjoy throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a cozy story shared between friends. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and simple enough to whip up any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the magic of each tender tofu bite and the soothing spice blend. Happy cooking and happy eating!

Garlic Ginger Tofu Stew Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need