Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Spicy Black Bean Sauce

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

Firm tofu and vibrant broccoli florets are stir-fried in a savory and spicy black bean sauce, delivering a satisfying vegan meal full of umami. This chinese-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 25 minutes blends broccoli florets, vegetable oil, garlic cloves, minced 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 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Chinese cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
  2. Step 2: Add 14 ounces cubed firm tofu and cook, turning occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon minced ginger, and 2 tablespoons rinsed and chopped fermented black beans. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Add 3 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
  5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 3 tablespoons water until smooth.
  6. Step 6: Return tofu to the skillet and pour the sauce over. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and broccoli.
  7. Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tablespoons sliced scallions before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Spicy Black Bean Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 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 Spicy Black Bean 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 Spicy Black Bean 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 Spicy Black Bean 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 Spicy Black Bean 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.

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