Sautéed Garlic Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean Sauce

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

Firm tofu cubes sautéed with crisp broccoli florets in a savory black bean sauce, perfect for a quick vegan stir-fry. This chinese-inspired vegan ready in about 25 minutes blends firm tofu, pressed and cubed, broccoli florets, vegetable 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 Chinese cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed firm tofu and sauté for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 3 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4 minutes until bright green and just tender.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp mashed fermented black beans, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1/4 cup water mixed with 1 tsp cornstarch. Cook for 2 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Step 5: Return the tofu to the skillet and toss everything together to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1 minute to heat through.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 sliced green onions before serving over steamed rice or noodles.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Garlic Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean 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 Sautéed Garlic Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Sautéed Garlic Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Sautéed Garlic Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Sautéed Garlic Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean 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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