Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean Garlic Sauce
A savory stir-fry featuring firm tofu and crisp broccoli tossed in a bold black bean garlic sauce, delivering umami-rich comfort in every bite. This chinese-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 30 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 320 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 block, drained and cubed into 1-inch pieces firm tofu
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp, rinsed and roughly chopped fermented black beans
- 4 cloves, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp fresh, minced ginger
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp dissolved in 2 tbsp water cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 stalks, sliced diagonally green onions
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red chili flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same wok, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger, and 2 tbsp rinsed chopped fermented black beans. Stir-fry for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Step 3: Add 3 cups broccoli florets and 1/4 cup water. Cover and steam for 3 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Step 4: Return tofu to the wok and add 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1 tsp cornstarch dissolved in 2 tbsp water. Stir continuously for 2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats tofu and broccoli.
- Step 5: Toss in 2 sliced green onions and 1/4 tsp red chili flakes if using, stirring for 30 seconds to combine.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean Garlic 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 with Broccoli and Black Bean 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 Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean 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 Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean Garlic 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 with Broccoli and Black Bean Garlic 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.
Related recipes
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
