Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Broccoli in Light Soy Sauce
A quick and healthy vegan stir-fry featuring crispy tofu and tender broccoli florets in a fragrant garlic soy sauce. This asian-inspired vegan (vegan, gluten free) ready in about 30 minutes blends extra firm tofu, broccoli florets, 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 220 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 extra firm tofu
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 stalks green onions
Instructions
- Step 1: Drain and press 14 oz extra firm tofu for 15 minutes, then cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss cubes lightly with 1 tsp cornstarch to help crisping.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and stir-fry for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy on all sides, then remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp sesame oil and 4 minced garlic cloves, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 4: Add 2 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2 minutes, then pour in 1/4 cup water and cover skillet for 3 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Step 5: Return tofu cubes to skillet, add 3 tbsp light soy sauce, and toss everything for 1-2 minutes until tofu is coated and sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 6: Finish by stirring in 2 chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Broccoli in Light 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 Garlic and Broccoli in Light 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 Garlic and Broccoli in Light 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 Garlic and Broccoli in Light 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.
Is Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic and Broccoli in Light Soy Sauce vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
