Pan-Seared Tofu Stir Fry with Broccoli and Sesame Ginger Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crispy pan-seared tofu tossed with crunchy broccoli and a savory sesame ginger sauce, delivering an easy and satisfying vegan stir fry. This asian fusion-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 25 minutes blends extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed, broccoli florets, sesame oil 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 280 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian Fusion cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking, about 1 minute.
  2. Step 2: Add 14 ounces pressed and cubed extra firm tofu, spreading evenly and sear without moving for 3 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes until all sides are crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 3 cups broccoli florets, and sauté for 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  4. Step 4: Meanwhile, whisk together 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Pour the sauce into the pan with broccoli, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the broccoli.
  6. Step 6: Return tofu to the pan and gently toss to combine and warm through for 1 minute.
  7. Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds and 2 sliced green onions before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Tofu Stir Fry with Broccoli and Sesame Ginger Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 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 Pan-Seared Tofu Stir Fry with Broccoli and Sesame Ginger 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 Pan-Seared Tofu Stir Fry with Broccoli and Sesame Ginger 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 Pan-Seared Tofu Stir Fry with Broccoli and Sesame Ginger Sauce 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 Pan-Seared Tofu Stir Fry with Broccoli and Sesame Ginger Sauce 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.

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