Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger-Sesame Sauce and Broccoli
Golden pan-fried tofu tossed in a fragrant ginger-sesame sauce with crisp-tender broccoli and crunchy cashews for a satisfying vegan stir-fry. This asian-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 30 minutes blends cornstarch, vegetable oil, finely grated fresh ginger 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 350 calories and feeds 3, 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
- 14 oz block, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes extra-firm tofu
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp, finely grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup, chopped roasted cashews
- 2 stalks, sliced thinly green onions
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Toss 14 oz pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and pan-fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add 3 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until bright green and just tender.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp toasted sesame oil, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes if using. Pour sauce over broccoli and add tofu back to the skillet. Toss carefully to coat and cook for 2 more minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 1/4 cup chopped roasted cashews and 2 sliced green onions before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger-Sesame Sauce and Broccoli take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (15 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 Ginger-Sesame Sauce and Broccoli?
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 Ginger-Sesame Sauce and Broccoli?
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 Ginger-Sesame Sauce and Broccoli for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). 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 Ginger-Sesame Sauce and Broccoli vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
