Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashews in Garlic-Sesame Sauce
A vibrant stir fry featuring crispy tofu and tender broccoli tossed in a savory garlic-sesame sauce topped with crunchy roasted cashews. This asian fusion-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 30 minutes blends fresh broccoli florets, roasted cashews, soy sauce 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 cut into 1-inch cubes extra firm tofu
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup roasted cashews
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp, minced fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz extra firm tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp sesame oil, then 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Add 3 cups fresh broccoli florets and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until bright green and just tender.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
- Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce mixture over. Toss gently to coat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the tofu and broccoli.
- Step 6: Drizzle remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil over the stir fry, add 1/2 cup roasted cashews, and toss lightly before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashews in Garlic-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 Cashews in Garlic-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 Cashews in Garlic-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 Cashews in Garlic-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 Cashews in Garlic-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.