Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashew in Spicy Garlic Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

This vegetarian stir-fry features crispy tofu and tender broccoli tossed in a vibrant spicy garlic sauce, finished with crunchy cashews. This asian-inspired vegan (vegan, gluten free) ready in about 30 minutes blends extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, broccoli florets, cashew nuts, unsalted 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 350 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: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Asian cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu and stir-fry for 6-7 minutes until golden and crisp on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same wok, add 3 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  3. Step 3: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes to the broccoli, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Return the tofu to the wok and pour in 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp hoisin sauce, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar. Stir everything together and cook for 2 more minutes until sauce thickens and coats the tofu and broccoli.
  5. Step 5: Drizzle 2 tbsp sesame oil over the mixture, add 1/2 cup unsalted cashew nuts, and toss gently to combine.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving with steamed jasmine rice.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashew in Spicy 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 Cashew in Spicy 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 Cashew in Spicy 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 Cashew in Spicy 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 Tofu with Broccoli and Cashew in Spicy Garlic 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.

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