Quick note: If you’re making the wonton chips, preheat the oven now (400°F). Wrap tofu in a kitchen towel, place a heavy pan on top, or use a tofu press. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes while you move on to the next step.
Make the sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
Whisk together 1 teaspoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl. Set aside for later.
(Optional) Crispy Wonton Chips: Cut wonton wrappers into triangles and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray with oil. Bake in a preheated oven for 5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Begin chopping veggies while they bake.
Chop all the veggies before cooking so they’re ready to go. This makes the stir-frying process fast and easy.
Cook the crispy tofu: Crumble the pressed tofu into small, uneven pieces. Toss with 1 tablespoon of premade sauce, cornstarch, and salt.
Heat ½ tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add tofu and let it sit undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to develop golden edges, then pan-fry, stirring occasionally, for another 5–6 minutes until crispy.
Remove tofu from pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining ½ tablespoon oil. Sauté the onion and celery for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms, stirring well, and cook for another 3 minutes. If the veggies look dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of the premade sauce for moisture. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Return crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour in the remaining sauce and cornstarch slurry, stirring for 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly and coats everything evenly.
Serve warm, topped with green onions, sesame seeds, crispy wonton chips, and egg roll dipping sauce (if using).
Notes
Crispy tofu: Press tofu longer for a firmer texture. Cornstarch helps lock in crispiness. Also, pan-fry without stirring for the first 3–4 minutes for golden, crispy edges.
High heat, quick stir: Helps veggies stay crisp.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook tofu in a single layer to get the best texture.