Cumin-Spiced Leek and Tofu Stir-Fry
A quick and fragrant vegetarian stir-fry featuring tender leeks and silky tofu sheets seasoned with aromatic cumin. This dish comes together in minutes and delivers bold flavors with minimal fuss.
Story
This quick stir-fry makes the most of simple ingredients—crisp leeks and delicate tofu sheets are quickly tossed in a hot wok with fragrant cumin, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying but light.
Ingredients
Leeks
200g, trimmed and cut into 2-inch segments
Silken tofu sheets
150g, sliced into matchstick-sized strips
Vegetable oil
3 tablespoons
Garlic cloves
3, finely minced
Fresh ginger
1 inch, grated
Red Thai chilies
2-3, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
Cumin powder
1 teaspoon
Salt
to taste
Soy sauce
1 tablespoon
Sesame oil
1 teaspoon, for finishing
Instructions
1
Get everything ready
Wash the leeks thoroughly under running water to remove any grit between the layers. Cut them into approximately 2-inch segments, then slice each segment in half lengthwise if the pieces are thick. Cut the tofu sheets into thin, matchstick-like strips roughly the same size as the leek pieces. Mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and slice the chilies. Have all ingredients within arm's reach before you start cooking.
2
Heat the wok
Place a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Swirl the oil around to coat the surface. Once the oil is shimmering and slightly fragrant, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced chilies. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until aromatic—watch closely so the garlic doesn't burn.
3
Cook the tofu and leeks
Add the tofu strips to the wok and stir-fry gently for 1-2 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors and slightly crisp on the edges. Add the leek segments and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes. The leeks should remain slightly crisp but tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4
Season and finish
Sprinkle the cumin powder over the mixture and season with salt to taste. Add the soy sauce and toss everything together quickly. Remove from heat and drizzle with sesame oil for a fragrant finish. Serve immediately over steamed rice or as a side dish.
