Discover the simplicity and versatility of vegan stir fries with these 20 deliciously easy-to-make recipes. From spicy Thai-inspired dishes to sweet and sour treats, there’s something for everyone in this collection of flavorful and nutritious meals.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a foodie seeking inspiration for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while also aligning with your values. With ingredients like tofu, tempeh, mushrooms, and a variety of colorful vegetables, these stir fries offer a wealth of textures and flavors that are sure to delight.
In the following pages, we’ll explore each of these 20 mouth-watering recipes, providing you with everything you need to get started – from ingredient lists and cooking instructions to tips and variations. So go ahead, grab your wok or large skillet, and get ready to stir-fry your way to a world of flavorful and easy vegan meals!
Spicy Thai Basil Tofu Stir Fry
This spicy and aromatic stir fry is a flavorful vegetarian delight that combines the creaminess of tofu with the bold flavors of Thai basil, chili flakes, and soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cups Thai basil leaves
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu, garlic, and ginger; cook until the tofu is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers, Thai basil, chili flakes, and soy sauce; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Ginger Vegetable Stir Fry
Quick and flavorful, this Garlic Ginger Vegetable Stir Fry is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sesame Soy Mushroom Stir Fry
This Asian-inspired stir fry combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the nutty taste of sesame oil and the savory sweetness of soy sauce. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, mushrooms, and ginger; stir-fry until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (3-4 minutes).
3. Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute, until the mushrooms are coated with the sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Sour Tempeh Stir Fry
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with a tangy sweet and sour sauce, perfect for a quick and easy dinner. With its blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tempeh, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tempeh and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce.
6. Pour sauce over the tempeh mixture; stir-fry until coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Chickpea Stir Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the warmth of curry with the creaminess of coconut, all wrapped up in a nutritious package featuring chickpeas. A perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices and fresh vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chickpeas and coconut milk; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Eggplant and Bell Pepper Stir Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this sweet and savory Teriyaki-inspired dish, featuring tender eggplant and bell peppers. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons Teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the eggplant and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, Teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Noodle Stir Fry
A creamy and nutty twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines the comfort of peanut butter with the convenience of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tbsp. peanut butter
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the peanut butter over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the peanut butter mixture and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to combine.
6. Garnish with scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry
A vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic and the crunch of broccoli, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Pour in the lemon juice and toss the broccoli to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Maple Glazed Carrot and Snap Pea Stir Fry
Maple Glazed Carrot and Snap Pea Stir Fry: A sweet and savory twist on a classic vegetable stir-fry, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots and snap peas with the rich flavor of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the carrots and snap peas to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Pour the maple glaze into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Miso Ginger Bok Choy Stir Fry
A harmonious blend of savory miso, spicy ginger, and tender bok choy comes together in this quick and easy stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy (about 4-6 inches long), cleaned and drained
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 teaspoons of miso paste
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar (optional)
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the bok choy and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, salt, soy sauce, and rice vinegar (if using).
5. Pour the miso mixture over the bok choy and stir-fry for another minute, until everything is well combined.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Five-Spice Tofu and Cabbage Stir Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the savory taste of five-spice tofu with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
– 1 cup of shredded cabbage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, five-spice powder, and salt. Add the tofu cubes and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the tofu until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked tofu and cabbage in the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pineapple Cashew Stir Fry
This sweet and savory stir-fry combines the tropical flavors of pineapple with the creamy richness of cashews, all wrapped up in a quick and easy recipe. Perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cashews
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add pineapple and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey.
5. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine with pineapple.
6. Add cashews and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Stir Fry
This flavorful stir fry combines tender black beans, sweet corn, and savory spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans and corn kernels; stir to combine.
5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turmeric Cauliflower and Kale Stir Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines the earthy flavors of cauliflower and kale with a hint of warm turmeric, creating a nutritious and delicious dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned.
3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted.
4. Stir in the ground turmeric and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Stir Fry with Almond Sauce
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the natural sweetness of zucchini noodles with the nutty richness of almond sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized zucchini
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (optional)
– 1/4 cup almond sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or using a spiralizer.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, and bell peppers (if using). Stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cooked zucchini noodles and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in almond sauce and stir-fry for another minute, ensuring the noodles are well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Potato Stir Fry
This smoky paprika potato stir fry combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the bold flavor of smoked paprika, creating a delicious and savory side dish. Perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the potato pieces and smoked paprika, stirring to combine.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprout Stir Fry
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprout Stir Fry: A sweet and savory twist on a classic vegetable dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar + 1 tablespoon honey)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and caramelize, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the balsamic glaze (or combine the balsamic vinegar and honey) and stir-fry until the sprouts are well coated and the glaze has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes more.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Kimchi and Tofu Stir Fry
Savor a spicy and savory fusion of Korean flavors with this speedy stir-fry recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in kimchi, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Cook for an additional minute, scraping the bottom of the pan.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir-fry until well coated with the kimchi mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Coconut Tofu Stir Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring tender tofu, creamy coconut milk, and the zesty warmth of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add lemongrass, garlic, and mixed vegetables to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
4. Pour in coconut milk and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Add tofu back into the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Stir Fry
This vibrant stir fry combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the earthiness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
2. Let the peppers cool, then peel off skin and chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, roasted red pepper, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to stir-fry your way to a flavorful and vegan culinary experience! This article presents 20 deliciously simple recipes that will satisfy your cravings. From Spicy Thai Basil Tofu Stir Fry to Zucchini Noodle Stir Fry with Almond Sauce, these mouthwatering dishes are all vegetarian and free from animal products. Explore the world of stir-frying with a variety of international flavors, including Asian-inspired options like Sesame Soy Mushroom Stir Fry and Teriyaki Eggplant and Bell Pepper Stir Fry. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for new ideas, these recipes are sure to please.
