Stir-Fried Fourth Element Tofu and Broccoli with Garlic Sauce

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

A quick stir-fry combining firm tofu and broccoli florets in a savory garlic-soy glaze. This asian fusion-inspired vegan ready in about 25 minutes blends broccoli florets, 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 220 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Asian Fusion cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and pan-fry for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crisp.
  2. Step 2: Add 3 cups broccoli florets and 4 minced garlic cloves to the wok, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, 1/4 cup water, and the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water).
  4. Step 4: Pour the sauce mixture over tofu and broccoli in the wok and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the ingredients.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Fourth Element Tofu and Broccoli with 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 Stir-Fried Fourth Element Tofu and Broccoli with 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 Stir-Fried Fourth Element Tofu and Broccoli with 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 Stir-Fried Fourth Element Tofu and Broccoli with Garlic 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 Stir-Fried Fourth Element Tofu and Broccoli with 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.

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