Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a stir fry that’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor, you’re going to adore this Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe. I’ve made this dish countless times when I wanted something that’s both comforting and fresh, and I promise, you’ll find it just as satisfying. It’s got that perfect balance of crispy tofu, tender broccoli, and a sauce that’s downright addictive. Trust me, once you try this, it might become your new weeknight staple.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here brings something important to the table — whether it’s the tofu providing protein or the broccoli adding a fresh crunch. Plus, the sauce is made from common pantry staples, making this recipe super approachable.

• Soy sauce: I always choose low sodium soy sauce to control saltiness better.
• Vegetable stock: Adds deeper flavor than water, but water is totally fine if you don’t have stock.
• Sesame oil: A little goes a long way for that toasty aroma and taste.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to balance the richness.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh is best here for that punchy, aromatic flavor.
• Sugar or honey: Sweetens the sauce just right — adjust as you prefer.
• Cornstarch: The secret to thickening the sauce and creating that luscious coating on tofu and veggies.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, but I love the hint of heat they add.
• Extra firm tofu: Pressed and cubed for the best texture and to soak up the sauce.
• Neutral oil: Something like canola or vegetable oil for frying tofu crisp.
• Broccoli florets: Bite-sized pieces thawed from frozen or fresh work well.
• Carrots: I dice them small so they cook quickly and add color.
• Red bell pepper: Thinly sliced for sweetness and crunch.

Variations

I like to tweak this Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe depending on what’s in my fridge and my mood. Don’t be afraid to make it your own — swapping vegetables or adjusting the sauce sweetness is totally encouraged!

• Add heat: When I want things spicy, I crank up the red pepper flakes or toss in some fresh chopped chili.
• Extra veggies: Mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn make great additions for more texture.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to keep it GF.
• Swap sweetener: Maple syrup is a nice vegan alternative to honey.

How to Make Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Whip up that irresistible stir fry sauce

Start by whisking together soy sauce, vegetable stock, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, sugar or honey, cornstarch, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. The cornstarch here is key — it thickens everything up during cooking and helps the sauce cling perfectly. I like to set this aside while I prep the tofu and veggies, so everything’s ready to go for that quick stir fry.

Step 2: Press and coat your tofu for max crispiness

Pressing the tofu is a game changer. When I first skipped this step, the tofu turned out soggy and bland. Wrapping it in paper towels and pressing the excess water out really makes it firm and ready to crisp up. Then, toss those cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This coating locks in moisture and gives the outside that golden crust you’ll love.

Step 3: Fry the tofu until beautifully golden

Heat your neutral oil over medium-high heat, and carefully add the tofu cubes in one even layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan — I usually do this in batches if needed. Let the tofu cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the first side is golden. Flip and repeat until all sides achieve that perfect crisp. This step really elevates the texture and flavor, making it way better than steamed or boiled tofu.

Step 4: Sauté the veggies and bring it all together

In the same pan, toss in broccoli florets and diced carrots first—these take a little longer, so give them 3-4 minutes. Then add sliced red bell pepper and garlic, cooking another 2 minutes until fragrant but still crisp. Pour in your stir fry sauce and stir everything well. Add the tofu back in and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens just right and coats all the ingredients lovingly. Easy and taste-packed!

Step 5: Serve it up with your favorite sides

I usually serve this with jasmine rice or soba noodles — but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any grain or noodle you love. Then garnish as you like, and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Garnishes

I’m all about adding brightness and texture here — green onions and fresh cilantro are my go-tos. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving really wakes everything up. Sometimes I sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top too; they give that little nutty crunch that feels so satisfying.

Side Dishes

Rice is classic, and for good reason. I often choose jasmine or brown rice depending on how hearty I want the meal. Occasionally, I’ll serve it over noodles like soba or rice noodles to mix it up. A light cucumber salad or pickled veggies on the side can add a refreshing contrast, too.

Creative Ways to Present

When I’m serving this for a gathering, I like to plate it beautifully in shallow bowls with edible flowers or extra herbs on top. Serving the tofu broccoli stir fry over steamed cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps gives it an elegant twist that guests always comment on. It feels special without extra effort!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After dinner, I transfer leftovers to airtight containers and stash them in the fridge for up to four days. The tofu holds up surprisingly well, especially if you reheat it gently. Just make sure to keep the sauce and solids together to keep flavors locking in.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this stir fry a couple of times with good results. I suggest freezing without rice or noodles, just the tofu and veggies in sauce, in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When thawing, do it in the fridge overnight for best texture retention.

Reheating

The best way to reheat leftover tofu broccoli stir fry is in a skillet over medium heat. It revives the tofu crispness and warms the veggies evenly. Avoid microwaving if you can, but if you do, add a splash of water to keep things from drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen rotation because it’s equal parts comforting and vibrant. The crispy tofu combined with fresh veggies and a sauce that’s simple yet so flavor-packed makes every bite feel like a little celebration. I really hope you give it a try — it’s the kind of dish that’ll have you feeling confident in your cooking and asking, “What should I make next week?” Happy cooking, friend!

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