Vegetarian Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean Sauce

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

Firm tofu and crisp broccoli stir-fried in a savory black bean sauce, creating a hearty and satisfying vegetarian main dish. This chinese-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends broccoli florets, vegetable 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 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: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Chinese cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the wok. Stir-fry 3 cups broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  3. Step 3: Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp minced ginger, and 2 tbsp chopped fermented black beans to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Bring to a simmer, then add the 1 tsp cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the broccoli.
  5. Step 5: Return tofu to the wok and toss gently to coat with the sauce. Drizzle 1 tsp sesame oil over the dish and remove from heat.
  6. Step 6: Garnish with 2 thinly sliced scallions before serving with steamed rice.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Vegetarian Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean 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 Vegetarian Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Vegetarian Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Vegetarian Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and 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 Vegetarian Stir-Fried Tofu with Broccoli and Black Bean 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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