Quick Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic Sauce
This simple stir-fry showcases crispy tofu and fresh broccoli tossed in a savory garlic soy sauce — a fast and healthy vegan meal. This asian-inspired vegan ready in about 25 minutes blends broccoli florets, tablespoons vegetable oil, minced garlic cloves 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 260 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, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes extra-firm tofu
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mixed with 1 tablespoon water cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz cubed tofu and fry for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add 3 cups broccoli florets and 1/4 cup water; cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Step 3: Stir together 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, and the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Pour this sauce into the skillet with broccoli and garlic.
- Step 4: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss everything together over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring until sauce thickens and coats the tofu and broccoli evenly. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Quick Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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.
