Octopus Tofu Black Pepper Stir Fry

A savory and aromatic Octopus Tofu Black Pepper Stir Fry with tender seafood tofu coated in a bold, glossy black pepper sauce. Quick, easy, and perfect for a comforting rice bowl in under 20 minutes.

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Cook Time: 10 Minutes

Servings: 2 - 3 Portions

Ingredients

Main:

• 400 g octopus tofu, cut into thick cubes

• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for light crispiness)

• 1 ½ tbsp cooking oil

  
  

Vegetables:

• ½ onion, sliced

• ½ red bell pepper, sliced

• ½ green bell pepper, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

  
  

Black Pepper Sauce:

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce

• ½ tsp dark soy sauce (for color, optional)

• 1 tsp sugar

• ½ tsp sesame oil

• 1 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

• 3 tbsp water or stock

  
  

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu

Pat the octopus tofu dry.Lightly coat with cornstarch if you want a slightly crisp exterior.

2. Sear the Tofu

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.Add tofu in a single layer.Cook 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.Remove and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Aromatics

In the same pan, add remaining oil.Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 20 seconds).Add onions and cook until slightly softened.Add bell peppers and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes (keep them slightly crisp).

4. Add Sauce

Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.Pour into the pan and let simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Combine

Return tofu to the pan.Toss gently until coated evenly with the glossy black pepper sauce.Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is well combined.

Turn off heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over hot steamed rice

• Add a fried egg for a complete rice bowl

• Pair with stir-fried greens (bok choy or kailan)

• Sprinkle extra cracked black pepper for stronger flavor

  
  

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly cracked black pepper for maximum aroma.

• Do not over-stir after adding tofu to prevent breaking.

• If you prefer thicker sauce, dissolve ½ tsp cornstarch in 1 tbsp water and add at the end.

• Adjust sweetness and saltiness to your taste.