Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashews in Ginger-Sesame Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Golden tofu cubes stir-fried with crisp broccoli and toasted cashews, coated in a savory ginger and sesame sauce. This asian-inspired stir fry (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends firm tofu, drained and cubed, broccoli florets, cashews, raw 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 400 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 400 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil and 1/3 cup raw cashews. Toast the cashews for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant, then add 3 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 1 tbsp minced ginger and 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 3 tbsp water until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Pour the sauce into the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until it thickens and coats the broccoli and cashews. Return tofu to the skillet and toss gently to combine and warm through. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles if desired.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Cashews 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 Cashews 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 Cashews 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 Cashews in Ginger-Sesame 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 Cashews in Ginger-Sesame 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.

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