Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Broccoli and Ginger Soy Sauce
Crisp tofu cubes stir-fried with tender broccoli florets, tossed in a fragrant ginger soy sauce with toasted sesame seeds. This asian-inspired vegan (vegan) ready in about 30 minutes blends (about 1 large head) broccoli florets, divided vegetable oil, thinly sliced 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 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 block, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes extra firm tofu
- 4 cups (about 1 large head) broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp, divided vegetable oil
- 4 cloves, thinly sliced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2, thinly sliced green onions
- 1/4 tsp (optional) red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp mixed with 1 tbsp water cornstarch
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz pressed extra firm tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add 4 cups broccoli florets, 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Step 3: Stir together 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Pour sauce over broccoli and add tofu back to the skillet.
- Step 4: Pour 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water into the skillet and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens and coats broccoli and tofu.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Broccoli and Ginger 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-Sesame Broccoli and Ginger 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-Sesame Broccoli and Ginger 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-Sesame Broccoli and Ginger Soy 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 Garlic-Sesame Broccoli and Ginger Soy 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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