Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic Sauce
A quick and colorful stir-fry featuring crispy tofu and fresh broccoli tossed in a savory garlic soy sauce. This asian-inspired 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 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 block, pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4, minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2, sliced green onions
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed extra-firm tofu and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning carefully until golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil and 3 cups broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Step 3: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes to the broccoli, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the sauce over the broccoli and add the tofu back to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and broccoli.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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-Fry with Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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-Fry with Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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-Fry with Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic 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.
What goes well with Vegetarian Stir-Fry with Tofu and Broccoli in Garlic Sauce?
Asian vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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