Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashew in Ginger-Sesame Sauce
A vibrant vegan stir-fry featuring crispy tofu, fresh broccoli, and crunchy cashews in a fragrant ginger-sesame sauce. This asian-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 30 minutes blends broccoli florets, raw cashews, sesame 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 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
- 14 oz, pressed and cubed into 1-inch pieces extra-firm tofu
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp, finely grated fresh ginger
- 3, minced garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 2, sliced thinly green onions
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed tofu and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides; remove tofu from skillet.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp sesame oil, 3 cups broccoli florets, and 1/2 cup raw cashews. Stir-fry for 4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and just tender.
- Step 3: Add 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 2 tbsp water until smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the sauce into the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring, until it thickens and coats the broccoli and cashews.
- Step 6: Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss gently to combine and heat through.
- Step 7: Garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving with steamed rice or noodles.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashew in Ginger-Sesame 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 Cashew in Ginger-Sesame 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 Cashew in Ginger-Sesame 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 Cashew in Ginger-Sesame 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 Tofu with Broccoli and Cashew in Ginger-Sesame 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.
Equipment for this recipe
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