Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Sesame Ginger Sauce
Crispy tofu cubes stir-fried with tender broccoli in a savory sesame ginger sauce, perfect for a healthy vegetarian dinner. This asian-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends extra-firm tofu, cornstarch, vegetable oil 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 extra-firm tofu
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp sliced green onions
Instructions
- Step 1: Press 14 oz extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss tofu cubes gently with 3 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add 4 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Step 4: Add 3 cloves minced garlic and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger to the broccoli, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp honey, and 1/4 cup water. Pour sauce into skillet and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats the broccoli.
- Step 6: Return crispy tofu to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in sauce and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 tbsp sliced green onions before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Sesame Ginger Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 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 Sesame 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 Sesame 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 Sesame Ginger 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 Sesame Ginger 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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