Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Garlic-Ginger Sauce
A quick vegan stir-fry combining crispy tofu and vibrant broccoli florets in a flavorful garlic-ginger soy sauce. This asian-inspired healthy bowls (vegan, gluten free option) ready in about 35 minutes blends broccoli florets, sesame oil, minced garlic cloves 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 280 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.
Ingredients
- 14 oz (400g), drained and cut into 1-inch cubes extra firm tofu
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp, minced fresh ginger
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2, thinly sliced scallions
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Step 1: Press 14 oz extra firm tofu between paper towels for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil. Add 3 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Step 4: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger to the broccoli and stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5: Stir in 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tbsp maple syrup. Return tofu to the skillet and toss everything together for 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats the tofu and broccoli.
- Step 6: Remove from heat, sprinkle with 2 thinly sliced scallions and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes if using, then serve immediately over steamed brown rice or noodles.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Garlic-Ginger Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 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 Garlic-Ginger 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 Garlic-Ginger 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 Garlic-Ginger 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 Garlic-Ginger Sauce vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan, gluten free option, high protein based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Will make again.
- ★★★★★
This is a family favorite! The sauce was perfect and the tofu was so crispy.
- ★★★★★
Amazingly flavorful and quick to make. My kids even ate the broccoli!