Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli with Spicy Black Bean Sauce
Firm tofu and crisp broccoli florets stir-fried in a savory and spicy black bean sauce, perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal with bold flavors. This chinese-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 30 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 300 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 firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sambal oelek (chili paste)
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the pan. Toss in 3 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Step 3: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp minced ginger, and 1 tbsp rinsed and chopped fermented black beans. Cook 1 minute until aromatic.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sambal oelek, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 2 tbsp water until smooth.
- Step 5: Return tofu to the pan and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats tofu and broccoli evenly.
- Step 6: Drizzle 1 tsp sesame oil and sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped green onions before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli with Spicy Black Bean Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (15 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 Tofu and Broccoli with Spicy 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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli with Spicy 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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli with Spicy 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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Broccoli with Spicy 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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