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This tofu and broccoli stir fry is a simple, delicious, and healthy vegetarian meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Crispy, marinated tofu is paired with fresh broccoli and coated in a sticky ginger garlic sauce, making it a perfect main dish for dinner. This recipe is vegetarian, gluten-free adaptable, and ideal for quick weeknight meals.

Easy Tofu and Broccoli Stir Fry 

Why You’ll Love This Tofu and Broccoli Stir Fry

This Chinese-inspired tofu stir fry delivers a balance of textures and flavors. The tofu is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the broccoli adds a vibrant crunch. The ginger garlic sauce is sticky, savory, and slightly sweet, coating every bite for maximum flavor. It’s an easy vegetarian stir fry that’s both satisfying and nutritious, perfect served over steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Marinade:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tbsp sugar

  • 2 tsp rice vinegar

For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup vegetable stock

  • 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)

  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1/2 tsp sesame oil

  • 1/2 tbsp cornstarch

For the Stir Fry:

  • 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu (14 oz / 400 g)

  • 1/3 cup cornstarch

  • 2 1/2 tbsp peanut oil (or vegetable oil)

  • 1 large head broccoli

  • 1 tbsp minced ginger

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Tofu
Cut tofu into 3/4” (2 cm) cubes and place in a sealable bag. Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and pour into the bag. Seal and gently toss to coat. Let sit while prepping other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Combine all sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli
Cut broccoli into florets. Peel and slice stems into 1/2” sticks if needed. Blanch in boiling water 2–3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Coat and Cook Tofu
Drain marinated tofu and discard marinade. Coat tofu evenly with cornstarch. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu until golden brown on most sides. Transfer to a plate.

Step 5: Cook Aromatics and Sauce
Add remaining 1/2 tbsp oil, ginger, and garlic to the pan. Stir for a few seconds to release fragrance. Stir the sauce again and pour over the pan. Cook until the sauce thickens, just a few seconds.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add cooked tofu and broccoli back into the pan. Toss to coat with sauce. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice for a delicious vegetarian stir fry main dish.

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

  • Servings: 4

Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine, and gluten-free hoisin sauce.

  • Extra Crunchy Tofu: Bake or air-fry tofu instead of pan-frying for a crispier texture.

  • Add Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a colorful stir fry.

Storage and Reheating

  • Make-Ahead: Marinate tofu in advance and prepare sauce ahead, but stir-fry just before serving for best texture.

  • Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain tofu crispiness.

FAQs

  1. Can I use soft tofu?
    Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for this stir fry to maintain shape and crispiness.

  2. Can I make it spicy?
    Yes! Add a pinch of chili flakes or some sliced fresh chili to the sauce.

  3. What to serve with this tofu stir fry?
    Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles work perfectly.

  4. How do I make the tofu extra crispy?
    Double-coat with cornstarch and fry in hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

  5. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely. Bell peppers, snow peas, carrots, or mushrooms all pair well.

Conclusion

This Tofu and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and satisfying vegetarian Chinese stir fry. Crispy tofu and tender broccoli coated in a sticky ginger garlic sauce make it perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s easy to make, gluten-free adaptable, and sure to become a family favorite vegetarian stir fry recipe.

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Easy Tofu and Broccoli Stir Fry 

Easy Tofu and Broccoli Stir Fry 

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  • Author: Chef Sophia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Maggie’s Tofu and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful vegetarian Chinese stir fry that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Crispy tofu cubes are paired with tender broccoli and coated in a sticky, savory ginger garlic sauce. This easy tofu stir fry is vegetarian, gluten-free adaptable, and packed with protein and vegetables for a nutritious, satisfying meal. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

2 tbsp sugar

2 tsp rice vinegar

For the Sauce:

¼ cup vegetable stock

2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)

2 tbsp hoisin sauce (use gluten-free if needed)

1 tbsp soy sauce

½ tsp sesame oil

½ tbsp cornstarch

For the Stir Fry:

1 block firm or extra-firm tofu (14 oz / 400 g)

⅓ cup cornstarch

2 ½ tbsp peanut oil (or vegetable oil)

1 large head broccoli

1 tbsp minced fresh ginger

2 cloves garlic, minced

Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Marinate the Tofu
    Cut tofu into ¾” (2 cm) cubes and place in a sealable bag. Combine all marinade ingredients and pour over tofu. Seal and toss gently to coat. Let sit while prepping other ingredients.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
    In a medium bowl, combine all sauce ingredients and stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set aside.
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli
    Cut broccoli into florets and peel stems into ½” sticks if desired. Blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
  4. Step 4: Coat and Cook Tofu
    Drain tofu and discard marinade. Coat tofu evenly with cornstarch. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tofu until golden brown on most sides, about 5–6 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
  5. Step 5: Cook Aromatics and Sauce
    Add remaining ½ tbsp oil to the skillet. Add ginger and garlic, stir for a few seconds until fragrant. Stir the sauce again and pour over the pan. Cook until thickened, just a few seconds.
  6. Step 6: Combine and Serve
    Add tofu and broccoli back into the pan. Toss to coat with sauce. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

  • Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine, and gluten-free hoisin sauce.
  • Extra Crunchy Tofu: Bake or air-fry tofu for a crispier texture.
  • Add More Vegetables: Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms can be added for extra color and nutrition.
  • Make it Spicy: Add chili flakes or sliced fresh chili to the sauce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese

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