Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce
A quick and satisfying stir-fry with crispy tofu, vibrant vegetables, and a rich cashew-based sauce. Ideal for a healthy and protein-packed meal. This chinese-inspired indian (vegetarian) ready in about 35 minutes blends block (14 oz), pressed and cubed tofu, chopped cashews, soy sauce into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 300 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz), pressed and cubed tofu
- 1/4 cup, chopped cashews
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1, sliced bell pepper
- 1 cup, florets broccoli
- 1 medium, julienned carrots
- 2 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and 1 tbsp water. Set aside as the sauce.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy, then set aside.
- Step 3: In the same pan, add remaining oil, then sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Step 4: Return tofu to the pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Sprinkle sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Kids gobbled it up without complaints — that's a 5-star in my book.
- ★★★★☆
Reliable weeknight option. Not going to blow your mind but always satisfying.
- ★★★★☆
Really good but took about 10 minutes longer than stated.
