Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashew Sauce
A vibrant vegan stir fry featuring crispy tofu and tender broccoli in a savory cashew sauce, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner. This asian fusion-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 35 minutes blends broccoli florets, raw cashew nuts, low sodium 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 380 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, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes extra firm tofu
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/3 cup raw cashew nuts
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 stalks, sliced thin green onions
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Soak 1/3 cup raw cashew nuts in hot water for 15 minutes, then drain and blend with 1/4 cup water, 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, and 1 tbsp maple syrup until smooth. Set aside the cashew sauce.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz pressed tofu cubes and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crisp.
- Step 3: Remove tofu and add 3 cups broccoli florets, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Step 4: Return tofu to the skillet and pour in the cashew sauce. Stir 1 tsp cornstarch into the sauce mixture and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and broccoli.
- Step 5: Drizzle 2 tbsp sesame oil over the stir fry and garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashew 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 with Broccoli and Cashew 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.