Satisfying Meatless Recipe: Fried Tofu & Cabbage Mayo Stir-fry

Updated at: 08/06/2025

Craving a satisfying and flavorful meatless meal that's both quick to prepare and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this Fried Tofu & Cabbage Mayo Stir-fry! This recipe delivers a delightful combination of crispy fried tofu, tender cabbage, and a creamy, umami-rich mayo sauce that will leave you wanting more. Forget bland vegetarian dishes – this stir-fry explodes with flavor, offering a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It's the ideal weeknight dinner, effortlessly impressing both vegetarian and meat-lovers alike.

This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. The satisfying crunch of the fried tofu contrasts beautifully with the soft cabbage, all brought together by a rich and addictive mayo-based sauce. Ready to experience the deliciousness? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process that will have this incredible stir-fry on your table in no time.

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • Fried Tofu: 2 slices (approx. 300g)
  • Cabbage (spring cabbage preferred): 1/4 head (approx. 250g)
  • Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
  • Sake or Water: 1 tablespoon
  • Sugar: 1/2 tablespoon
  • Mayonnaise: 3 tablespoons
  • Cooking Oil: 1 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper: Generous amount, coarsely ground

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Tofu

  • Cut the fried tofu into 1.5-2cm cubes. Wipe with paper towel to reduce oiliness if desired.
  • Chop the cabbage into 1.5cm pieces, removing the hard core. Cut into similar size as fried tofu for even cooking and easier eating.
Cut the fried tofu into 1.5-2cm cubes. Wipe with paper towel to reduce oiliness if desired.
Prepare Ingredients & Tofu

Step 2. Fry Tofu & Make Sauce

  • Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
  • Add the fried tofu to the pan and fry until lightly browned on all sides, turning occasionally. This gives a slightly chewy texture.
  • In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, sake/water, sugar, and mayonnaise.
Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.Add the fried tofu to the pan and fry until lightly browned on all sides, turning occasionally. This gives a slightly chewy texture.In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, sake/water, sugar, and mayonnaise.
Fry Tofu & Make Sauce

Step 3. Stir-fry with Cabbage

  • Add the mixed seasonings to the fried tofu in the pan and stir-fry.
  • Add the chopped cabbage to the pan. Stir-fry until cabbage reaches desired tenderness (spring cabbage will soften quickly).
Add the mixed seasonings to the fried tofu in the pan and stir-fry.Add the chopped cabbage to the pan. Stir-fry until cabbage reaches desired tenderness (spring cabbage will soften quickly).
Stir-fry with Cabbage

Step 4. Serve

  • Turn off the heat and serve. Garnish with coarsely ground black pepper.
Turn off the heat and serve. Garnish with coarsely ground black pepper.
Serve

Read more: Shojin Ryori: Delicious Buddhist Vegetarian Recipes

Tips

  • If using winter cabbage, microwave or pre-fry it before adding to the stir-fry.
  • The degree of doneness for the cabbage is a matter of preference. It's delicious slightly raw or well-cooked.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Yes! Napa cabbage, red cabbage, or even savoy cabbage would work well. Just adjust cooking time as needed; some cabbages cook faster than others.

2. What can I substitute for the mayonnaise?

For a vegan option, use vegan mayonnaise. Alternatively, you could try a creamy peanut sauce or a sriracha mayo for a spicier kick.


This Fried Tofu & Cabbage Mayo Stir-fry is a testament to how delicious and satisfying meatless meals can be. Its simple preparation and bold flavors make it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy this flavorful and versatile dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different additions to customize it to your liking!