Name: Easy Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl That Bursts with Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 block Firm tofu (pressed and cubed); 2 cups Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 1 medium Red bell pepper (sliced thin); 2 medium Carrots (julienned or thinly sliced); 1 cup Snap peas; 2 stalks Green onions (sliced); 1/4 cup Soy sauce (low sodium if preferred); 2 tablespoons Maple syrup or honey; 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar; 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger (grated); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds (toasted); 2 cups Cooked jasmine or brown rice; 1/2 teaspoon Chili flakes

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After a long day craving something fresh and flavorful, I found myself craving a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to whip up. That’s when this Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl came to the rescue—bursting with vibrant veggies, tender tofu, and a sticky-sweet teriyaki glaze that brings it all together. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug but comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for anyone tired of fast food but short on time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this bowl offers endless room to customize while delivering reliable, crave-worthy flavor every single time.

Why choose this Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl?

Simplicity meets deliciousness with a quick, fuss-free recipe anyone can master. Vibrant veggies and tender tofu create a nourishing, colorful bowl that’s as healthy as it is satisfying. Sticky-sweet teriyaki glaze brings a perfect balance of flavors that will keep you coming back. Customizable to your favorite ingredients or whatever’s in your fridge, it’s an ideal dinner solution for busy nights. Plus, this bowl is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress both home cooks and food lovers alike!

Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

Firm tofu – pressed and cubed for the perfect texture that holds up in the stir-fry.
Broccoli florets – fresh or frozen, they add crunch and vibrant green color.
Red bell pepper – sliced thin for a sweet, crisp bite and eye-catching hue.
Carrots – julienned or thinly sliced to bring natural sweetness and a pop of orange.
Snap peas – quickly cooked for a bright, tender-crisp snap that livens the bowl.
Green onions – sliced for a mild onion flavor that adds freshness at the end.

For the Teriyaki Sauce

Soy sauce – the salty foundation of the glaze; low sodium if preferred.
Maple syrup or honey – adds natural sweetness and a sticky texture to the sauce.
Rice vinegar – balances sweetness with a subtle tang.
Garlic – minced for aromatic depth and flavor punch.
Fresh ginger – grated to infuse warmth and slight spice.
Cornstarch – to thicken the sauce, creating that signature glossy coating.

Optional Toppings and Sides

Sesame seeds – toasted for a nutty crunch and pretty finish.
Cooked jasmine or brown rice – as a base to soak up every delicious drop.
Chili flakes – for those who love a gentle kick of heat in their bowls.

This thoughtfully layered combination of ingredients makes the Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl a vibrant, crave-worthy meal anyone can enjoy at home.

How to Make Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl

Prepare the Tofu: Remove excess moisture by pressing tofu for 15 minutes, then cut into ½-inch cubes. Pat dry to ensure they crisp up nicely when cooked.
Sear the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown all around.
Saute the Veggies: To the same skillet, add broccoli florets, julienned carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry 4–5 minutes until vibrant and tender-crisp.
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
Thicken the Sauce: Pour sauce into skillet with veggies and tofu. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce is glossy and thickened.
Toss Everything: Gently fold tofu and vegetables with the teriyaki sauce, ensuring every piece is evenly coated in that sticky-sweet glaze. Cook 1 minute more to meld flavors.
Serve: Divide steamed rice among bowls, then spoon the tofu stir-fry on top. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and crunch.

Optional: Drizzle extra sauce and sprinkle chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl

Press tofu thoroughly: Removing excess moisture before cooking helps tofu crisp up perfectly, avoiding soggy, limp cubes in your stir-fry.
Cook veggies al dente: Stir-fry vegetables just until tender-crisp to keep their vibrant color and satisfying crunch. Overcooking dulls flavor and texture.
Whisk sauce well: Mix cornstarch fully with liquids before adding to the pan to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, glossy teriyaki glaze.
Use high heat: A hot skillet sears tofu beautifully and cooks vegetables quickly, locking in fresh flavors in your Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl.
Customize boldly: Swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or try different sweeteners like agave to make this recipe uniquely yours without losing flavor.

What to Serve with Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl?

Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that offer flavor, texture, and satisfaction.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice soaks up the savory teriyaki sauce, providing a perfect base for the stir-fry.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy, spring rolls add a textural contrast and are great for snacking before the main dish.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and complements the meal with its umami depth, balancing the sweetness of teriyaki.
Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw featuring cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the stir-fry.
Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is a healthy side that offers a pop of protein and a satisfying bite, enhancing the meal’s overall nutrition.
Sesame-Cucumber Salad: This cool, crisp salad brings a refreshing element, while sesame adds a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the teriyaki glaze.
Chili Garlic Sauce: For those with a taste for heat, drizzle some chili garlic sauce over the stir-fry to introduce an extra zing that complements the sweet flavors.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring pineapple and mango offers a sweet finish, balancing the savory elements of your stir-fry bowl.
Green Tea: A cup of refreshing green tea cleanses the palate and enhances the meal with its earthy notes, making it a soothing beverage choice.

Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl with these fun and flavorful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
Additional Proteins: Add chickpeas, edamame, or tempeh for extra protein. These options soak up the teriyaki sauce wonderfully!
Extra Crunch: Toss in water chestnuts or bell pepper strips for that delightful crunch that contrasts with the tenderness of the veggies.
Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to fire things up! This will bring a new dimension of heat, pleasing spice lovers.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Drizzle with a touch of sesame oil right before serving to introduce a warm, nutty aroma that beautifully complements the dish.
Veggie Variety: Swap out the veggies for seasonal choices! Zucchini, asparagus, or bok choy can bring unique flavors and colors to your bowl.
Sweet Additions: Toss in pineapple chunks for a burst of sweetness and a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with teriyaki sauce.
Herb Infusion: Finish with fresh cilantro or basil instead of green onions for an unexpected herbal freshness that brightens the entire dish.

These variations make the Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl an endlessly adaptable meal, perfect for your culinary adventures while keeping dinner exciting!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and refrigerate the vegetables (broccoli, red bell pepper, carrots, and snap peas) up to 3 days in advance, which saves you precious time on busy weeknights. Additionally, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the tofu and veggies as directed, then add the chilled sauce, and warm everything through. This approach ensures your meal retains its delightful freshness and flavor, making dinner just as delicious with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl

Fridge: Store any leftover Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze the stir-fry without the rice for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent dryness.

Serving Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to serve the stir-fry right after cooking, but these storage tips ensure delicious leftovers for busy days!

Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my tofu is fresh and good for this stir-fry?
Look for firm or extra-firm tofu with a clean, neutral smell and no slimy texture. Avoid tofu with dark spots or an off odor, as these indicate spoilage.

What’s the best way to store leftover Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the rice separate from the stir-fry helps maintain texture and freshness longer.

Can I freeze this Vegetarian Teriyaki Stir-Fry Bowl? How?
Absolutely! Cool the stir-fry completely, then place it (without rice) into a freezer-safe, airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.

What if my teriyaki sauce turns out too thick or lumpy?
No worries! Whisking the sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding cornstarch is key. If it’s too thick during cooking, simply stir in a bit of water or vegetable broth to loosen it until shiny and smooth.

Is this recipe pet-friendly or safe for people with soy allergies?
Since tofu is a main ingredient and soy sauce is in the sauce, this recipe isn’t safe for those with soy allergies, and it’s not pet-friendly due to soy and seasonings. For soy-free alternatives, try swapping tofu with tempeh made from chickpeas or seitan.