Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce
A quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring firm tofu, broccoli, bell peppers, and a creamy cashew sauce infused with ginger and chili. This asian-inspired vegetarian (vegan, gluten-free) ready in about 25 minutes blends block (14 oz), pressed and cubed tofu, head, cut into florets broccoli, medium, sliced bell pepper 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 320 calories and feeds 4, 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
- 1 block (14 oz), pressed and cubed tofu
- 1 head, cut into florets broccoli
- 1 medium, sliced bell pepper
- 1 medium, julienned carrot
- 1/2 cup, toasted cashews
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp, grated ginger
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy, then remove and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same pan, add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Step 3: In a bowl, combine 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp grated ginger, and 1 tbsp sriracha. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 4: Stir in 1/2 cup toasted cashews, then pour the sauce over the vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 5: Return the tofu to the pan, mix well, and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with 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 Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with 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 Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry with Cashew Sauce vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan, gluten-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Reliable weeknight option. Not going to blow your mind but always satisfying.
- ★★★★☆
Nice recipe! Presentation was beautiful. Flavor was good, not great.
- ★★★★☆
Reliable weeknight option. Not going to blow your mind but always satisfying.