The moment I took that first bite of my Saucy Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry, I felt like I had discovered my new favorite weeknight dinner. With its crispy oven-baked tofu and vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli, this dish brings an exciting twist to the table that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. Tossed in a sweet and savory sauce with just the right kick, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up after a long day.
Picture this: your kitchen filling with the irresistible aroma of garlic and ginger while the tofu crisps to perfection in the oven. In just about 30 minutes, you can serve up a crowd-pleasing dish that collapses the line between healthy and delicious. So, if you’re ready to transform tofu skeptics into enthusiastic fans, let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Why is Sesame Tofu & Broccoli a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This quick and straightforward recipe makes it easy for anyone to create an impressive meal in just 30 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: With a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors complemented by garlic and ginger, your taste buds will dance with joy!
Versatile Delight: Swap out broccoli for your favorite veggies, or even try tempeh for a nutty twist—endless possibilities await!
Crowd-Pleaser: Even those who claim to dislike tofu will be begging for seconds after tasting this dish.
Healthy yet Indulgent: Packed with plant-based protein and vibrant nutrients, this stir-fry satisfies cravings without compromising your diet goals.
Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Ingredients
• Gather these essentials for your delicious stir-fry experience!
For the Tofu
- Extra-Firm Tofu – The key to a satisfying crispy exterior; avoid silken or soft varieties for best results.
- Cornstarch – Ensures your tofu gets that perfect crispy coating; you can use less if preferred.
- Neutral Oil – For roasting and frying; grapeseed or vegetable oil are great alternatives.
For the Broccoli
- Broccoli – A nutritious and colorful star ingredient; opt for fresh, small heads to enhance the dish.
For the Sauce
- Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth – This forms the base of your sauce, enhancing flavors without excessive salt; homemade broth works beautifully as a substitute.
- Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness while keeping sodium levels in check; essential for this Sesame Tofu & Broccoli dish.
- Pure Maple Syrup – Provides the perfect sweetness to balance the savory elements; can be swapped for honey or agave.
- Chili Crisp – Introduces heat and texture; for milder spice, red pepper flakes can be used instead.
- Unseasoned Rice Vinegar – Offers acidity to balance the flavors; apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Brings a rich, nutty flavor; light olive oil is a possible replacement.
For Garnishing
- Scallions – Sprinkle on top for freshness and flavor; green onions are a suitable alternative.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds – Add these for flavor and visual appeal; crushed nuts can also be used as a topping.
For Serving
- Steamed White Rice – Recommended for a comforting base; brown rice or quinoa makes for a healthy alternative.
How to Make Sesame Tofu & Broccoli
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Prep Tofu: Press the excess water from the extra-firm tofu for 30-45 minutes until it’s firm and dry. Tear it into bite-sized pieces for a better texture when cooked.
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Coat and Bake: Toss the torn tofu pieces in cornstarch, ensuring they’re fully coated. Drizzle with neutral oil and arrange on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
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Mix Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, reduced-sodium soy sauce, pure maple syrup, chili crisp, unseasoned rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil until fully combined and smooth.
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Cook Broccoli: Heat a splash of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sauté the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger for about 30 seconds. Then add the broccoli and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until it’s crisp-tender and vibrant green.
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Combine and Thicken: Gently add the baked tofu to the skillet along with the mixed sauce. Stir well, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the broccoli and tofu.
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Serve: Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and generously top with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions. Serve hot over a bed of steamed white rice.
Optional: Drizzle with extra sesame oil for added flavor before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful variations!
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Veggie Swap: Replace broccoli with asparagus or bell peppers for a colorful twist. Adding seasonal vegetables elevates flavor and nutrition.
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Tempeh Instead: Use tempeh in place of tofu for a nuttier flavor and firmer texture. It brings a unique depth and is a fantastic protein boost.
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Sweetener Change: Swap pure maple syrup for honey or agave nectar for a slightly different sweetness. Each option adds its own unique flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add fresh sliced jalapeños or sriracha to the sauce for an extra zing! A little heat can transform the entire dish and make it exciting.
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Nutty Variation: Stir in roasted cashews or peanuts at the end for added crunch and rich flavor. The nutty texture complements the tofu beautifully.
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Citrus Zest: Enhance freshness by adding a splash of lime or lemon juice to the sauce. It brightens the flavors and brings a refreshing element.
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Herbal Infusion: Sprinkle cilantro or basil on top before serving for a fragrant finish. Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s aroma and visual appeal.
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Sauce Customization: Try swapping the rice vinegar for lemon or lime juice for added zing, or switch the soy sauce for coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. The variations in sauces can give your stir-fry a brand new personality!
What to Serve with Saucy Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
Elevate your weeknight dinner with these delightful pairings that will complement every bite of your stir-fry creation.
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Steamed White Rice: Serves as a warm, comforting base, soaking up all the savory sauce and creating a perfect balance.
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Stir-Fried Noodles: A great alternative to rice, they add a satisfying chew that pairs beautifully with the crispy tofu.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: Provide a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender broccoli and crispy tofu, making for an enjoyable texture combination.
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Cashew Salad: Fresh greens topped with crunchy cashews and a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the rich stir-fry.
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Szechuan Green Beans: The spiciness and crunchiness of these beans bring an irresistible zing, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: The cool, crisp cucumbers provide a burst of freshness that perfectly balances the richness of the stir-fry.
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Lemonade or Iced Green Tea: These refreshing drinks not only cleanse the palate but also add a splash of flavor that pairs magnificently with your dinner.
Each of these pairings brings its own unique texture and flavor to the table, making your Saucy Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry an even more enjoyable feast!
Expert Tips for Sesame Tofu & Broccoli
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Press Tofu Properly: Make sure to properly press the extra-firm tofu for at least 30 minutes. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture in your stir-fry.
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Tear, Don’t Cut: Instead of cutting your tofu, tear it into pieces. This enhances the crunchiness and allows the sauce to cling better, making your Sesame Tofu & Broccoli even more flavorful.
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Cooking Order Matters: Always sauté garlic and ginger before adding broccoli. This ensures that the aromatic flavors deeply infuse the oil, elevating the overall taste of your dish.
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Keep It Colorful: For an engaging presentation, feel free to add bell peppers or snap peas during stir-frying. A splash of color makes the dish more visually appealing and nutritious!
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before combining it with the tofu and broccoli. Adjust any of the ingredients according to your preference for sweetness or heat to make the dish truly yours.
Storage Tips for Sesame Tofu & Broccoli
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the tofu and broccoli from the rice to maintain texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked tofu separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to keep the tofu crispy. Add a splash of water for added moisture if needed.
- Serving Fresh: For optimal freshness, enjoy the Sesame Tofu & Broccoli within the first couple of days; the flavors continue to develop!
Make Ahead Options
These Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Stir-Fry ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can press and tear the tofu into pieces and toss it in cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crispiness. Additionally, you can prepare the stir-fry sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, bake the tofu as directed, sauté the fresh garlic and ginger, then quickly stir-fry the broccoli and combine everything with the pre-made sauce. This strategy ensures a delicious, flavorful dish with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
Absolutely, the best choice for this stir-fry is extra-firm tofu. It provides a meaty texture and crispy exterior, which is crucial. Avoid using silken or soft tofu, as they won’t hold their shape or develop that desired crunch.
How should I store leftover Sesame Tofu & Broccoli?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, I recommend keeping the tofu and broccoli separate from the rice. This way, when you reheat, the tofu stays crispy!
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Yes, you can freeze the baked tofu separately! Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will last up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. However, I advise consuming the broccoli fresh since freezing can affect its texture.
What if my tofu isn’t crispy enough?
If you find that your tofu isn’t as crispy as you’d like, there are a couple of things to check. First, ensure you pressed the tofu long enough—30-45 minutes is key! Also, make sure each piece is well-coated in cornstarch before baking, and give them space on the baking sheet to allow air circulation. If it’s still not crispy, a quick re-bake after stirring in the sauce can revive that desired crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
While this Sesame Tofu & Broccoli is generally vegetarian, it’s important to consider any personal allergies. The dish contains soy from the soy sauce and tofu, which can be allergenic for some. You can substitute with coconut aminos for a soy-free option and ensure all ingredients are checked for potential allergens. Enjoy eagerly, but always prioritize safety!
Can I use other vegetables in this stir-fry?
Very! This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to swap out broccoli for vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or snap peas. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed, so everything maintains that crisp-tender bite we love in a good stir-fry.
Savory Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Stir-Fry Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Press the excess water from the extra-firm tofu for 30-45 minutes until firm and dry. Tear it into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss the torn tofu pieces in cornstarch and drizzle with neutral oil. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- In a bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, reduced-sodium soy sauce, pure maple syrup, chili crisp, unseasoned rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil until smooth.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds.
- Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until crisp-tender and vibrant green.
- Gently add the baked tofu and sauce to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Transfer stir-fry to a serving dish and top with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions. Serve hot over steamed white rice.