Pan-Fried Tofu with Sesame-Ginger Glaze and Broccoli

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crisp pan-fried tofu cubes coated in a fragrant sesame-ginger glaze served alongside tender steamed broccoli. This asian fusion-inspired vegan ready in about 30 minutes pairs cornstarch, sesame oil, grated fresh ginger for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian Fusion cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Press a 14 oz block of extra firm tofu for at least 20 minutes, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss the tofu cubes gently with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger and 3 minced garlic cloves; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar. Cook the glaze for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  5. Step 5: Return the tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the glaze.
  6. Step 6: Meanwhile, steam 3 cups broccoli florets with 1/4 cup water in a covered pot over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  7. Step 7: Serve the glazed tofu over the steamed broccoli and garnish with 2 sliced green onions.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Fried Tofu with Sesame-Ginger Glaze and Broccoli take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Pan-Fried Tofu with Sesame-Ginger Glaze and Broccoli?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep cornstarch from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Fried Tofu with Sesame-Ginger Glaze 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 Pan-Fried Tofu with Sesame-Ginger Glaze 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.

What goes well with Pan-Fried Tofu with Sesame-Ginger Glaze and Broccoli?

Asian Fusion vegan like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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