Name: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 block extra-firm tofu ((12- to 14-ounce)); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (divided); 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce; 1/2 cup water; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon minced garlic ((about 3 cloves)); 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger; 3 tablespoons canola oil ((or grapeseed oil or another neutral oil), divided); 2 crowns broccoli ((cut into florets, about 5 to 6 cups)); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil; 3 tablespoons chopped green onions ((about 1/2 cup)); 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds; as needed Cooked brown rice or quinoa (for serving)

Looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious? Look no further than this Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry! Packed with fresh ingredients and a medley of delicious flavors, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for the week ahead. The combination of crispy tofu, tender broccoli, and a savory sauce will make your taste buds sing. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe!

Top Reasons to Make Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Easy to Prepare: This stir fry comes together in just a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Healthy and Wholesome: With nutrient-rich broccoli and protein-packed tofu, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Customizable: Feel free to add or swap vegetables according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the entire dish.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well, making it a great option for lunches throughout the week.

What’s in the Bowl

1 (12- to 14-ounce) block extra-firm tofu
2 tablespoons (plus 1 teaspoon) cornstarch, divided
1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
3 tablespoons canola oil (or grapeseed oil or another neutral oil), divided, plus additional as needed
2 broccoli crowns, cut into florets (about 5 to 6 cups)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
3 chopped green onions (about 1/2 cup)
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
Cooked brown rice or quinoa for serving

Tools of the Trade

Non-stick skillet or wok: Perfect for achieving that ideal stir-fry finish without sticking.
Spatula: A good spatula is essential for flipping and stirring your ingredients without breaking them.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables and tofu with ease.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure your ingredients are perfectly measured for the best flavor.
Mixing bowl: For combining your sauce ingredients before adding them to the stir fry.

Stepwise Method: Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Start by draining the tofu and pressing it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. This will help the tofu absorb the flavors better.

Step 2: Cut and Coat the Tofu

Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, toss the cubes with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This will give the tofu a crispy texture when cooked.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.

Step 4: Sauté the Tofu

Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated tofu cubes and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add an additional tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 6: Combine Tofu and Broccoli

Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu and broccoli, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 7: Finish with Flavor

Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the stir fry and toss in the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Stir to combine and remove from heat.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry over a bed of cooked brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade dish!

Better-for-You Options

Use low-sodium soy sauce: This helps reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Add more vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for additional nutrition and color.
Swap out brown rice for quinoa: Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that can add even more nutrients to your meal.
Use coconut aminos: A great soy sauce alternative that is gluten-free and lower in sodium.

Avoid These Mistakes

To achieve the best results with your Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Not pressing the tofu: Skipping this step can result in soggy tofu that doesn’t absorb flavors well.
Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much at once can lead to steaming rather than sautéing, preventing that delicious crispiness.
Using too much sauce: While flavor is important, too much sauce can make the dish soggy. Stick to the recommended amounts.
Not cutting veggies uniformly: Ensure that all your vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The stir fry can also be frozen for up to a month, though the texture of the tofu may change slightly upon thawing.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other vegetables in this stir fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for each vegetable.

Is there a vegan substitute for hoisin sauce?

If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly option, you can make your own hoisin sauce using peanut butter, soy sauce, and a bit of sweetener, or simply use a store-bought vegan version.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure that your hoisin sauce is also gluten-free.

What can I serve with Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry?

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it with a side salad for added freshness.

Final Thoughts

In a world filled with busy schedules and fast food options, taking the time to prepare a wholesome dish like Broccoli Tofu Stir Fry is truly rewarding. Not only does it nourish your body, but it also fills your home with tantalizing aromas that will have everyone gathering around the table. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this stir fry is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a dish that’s both comforting and delicious! Enjoy every bite!