Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Broccoli in Black Bean Sauce

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

Firm tofu and crisp broccoli stir-fried with aromatic garlic and savory black bean sauce for a flavorful vegetarian main. This chinese-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 22 minutes blends broccoli florets, black bean garlic sauce, thinly sliced 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 250 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: 12 min Serves 3 Chinese cuisine 250 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and pan-fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same wok, add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Step 3: Add 3 cups broccoli florets and 1/4 cup water, stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and just tender.
  4. Step 4: Return the tofu to the wok, add 3 tbsp black bean garlic sauce and 1 tbsp soy sauce. Stir well to coat all ingredients and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the tofu and broccoli.
  5. Step 5: Finish with 1 tsp sesame oil and garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Quick Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Broccoli in Black Bean Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 22 minutes (10 min prep + 12 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 Garlic and Broccoli in Black Bean 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 Garlic and Broccoli in Black Bean 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 Garlic and Broccoli in Black Bean 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 Garlic and Broccoli in Black Bean Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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