Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashews in Garlic Soy Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant, easy stir-fry combining crispy tofu, crunchy broccoli, and toasted cashews in a savory garlic soy sauce. This asian-inspired vegetarian ready in about 30 minutes blends broccoli florets, raw 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 380 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 3 Asian cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 14 oz cubed extra-firm tofu with 1 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and fry tofu for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy; remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1/3 cup raw cashews and toast for 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned; remove and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Add 2 tsp sesame oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated fresh ginger to the skillet, sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned.
  4. Step 4: Add 3 cups broccoli florets and 1/2 tsp salt, stir-fry for 4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
  5. Step 5: Stir together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp hoisin sauce, 1/4 cup water, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Pour sauce over broccoli, add tofu back to the pan, and gently toss to combine and heat through for 2 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat, garnish with 2 sliced green onions and toasted cashews before serving over steamed rice or noodles.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashews in Garlic Soy 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 Soy 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 Soy 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 Soy 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.

What goes well with Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashews in Garlic Soy Sauce?

Asian vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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