If you’re searching for a comforting yet vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and textures, this Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Drawing inspiration from the classic takeout favorite, this recipe transforms humble ingredients like super firm tofu and fresh broccoli into a mouthwatering meal coated in a luscious brown sauce that balances sweet and savory perfectly. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and makes a fantastic dinner or lunch option that will have you reaching for seconds in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe right depends on a handful of simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding crunch, flavor depth, or that irresistible glaze that ties everything together.

16 ounces super firm tofu: The star of the show, it holds its shape beautifully and crisps up wonderfully when pan-fried.
1 broccoli crown (about 8 ounces): Cut into florets for just the right bite and vibrant green color.
3 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps achieve that perfect crispy coating on the tofu and thickens the sauce without heaviness.
2 teaspoons light olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity note while frying the tofu to golden perfection.
¼ cup low sodium soy sauce: Delivers a savory, umami punch that balances the maple syrup’s sweetness.
¼ cup grade A maple syrup: Adds a natural sweetness that harmonizes all the flavors beautifully.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a mild garlic aroma without overpowering the dish.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds: For toasty crunch and a lovely finishing touch.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to ramp up the flavor exactly how you like it.

How to Make Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Tofu

Start by slicing the tofu into thin pieces, then into rough triangular shapes or rectangles. This gives it a rustic, homemade look, but if you prefer, cubes work just as well. Next, sprinkle half of the cornstarch evenly over the tofu and gently toss so it gets a light coating—this is key to achieving that desirable crispiness when frying.

Step 2: Pan-Fry Tofu Until Crispy

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes—patience here pays off. Once shimmering, add the tofu pieces carefully and let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Flip with care using a fork or tongs to maintain their shape. You don’t need every side browned perfectly; about half the tofu covered is just right.

Step 3: Add and Steam Broccoli

Introduce the broccoli florets into the same pan, then cover with a lid for 2 to 3 minutes to trap the steam. This step softens the broccoli just enough while keeping that satisfying crisp bite, making it a great partner alongside the tofu.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk the remaining cornstarch with 1.5 tablespoons of water until smooth, creating a slurry. Then stir in the low sodium soy sauce, grade A maple syrup, half the sesame seeds, and garlic powder. This sauce has the perfect balance of savory and sweetness, ready to coat every bite.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce over the tofu and broccoli in the pan. If it thickens quickly, feel free to add a tablespoon or two more of water to keep it just saucy enough. Cook together on medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to cling beautifully to the ingredients. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as preferred, then sprinkle the remaining sesame seeds on top for that extra burst of texture and flavor.

How to Serve Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds is a no-brainer to finish off your Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, adding a subtle nutty crunch. You can also toss on some thinly sliced green onions or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat and freshness.

Side Dishes

This stir fry shines alongside fluffy jasmine rice or sticky brown rice to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce. For a lighter take, steamed or stir-fried noodles work beautifully, elevating your meal into something truly satisfying and memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in vibrant lettuce wraps for a refreshing bite or dish it up over a warm grain bowl with quinoa or farro. For an exciting twist, try layering it over a bed of cauliflower rice or even stuffing it inside warm pita bread for a handheld delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tofu may soften slightly, but reheating gently will bring back much of that crispy texture and keep the broccoli tender.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe fresh for longer, freezing is an option, but the texture of tofu and broccoli may change upon thawing. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat to regain some of the tofu’s crispiness and warm the broccoli evenly. Microwaving works too but can result in a softer texture overall.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?

Absolutely! While broccoli is classic in this Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, feel free to swap in snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, or bok choy depending on your preference and what’s in season.

What type of tofu is best for this recipe?

Super firm tofu is ideal because it holds its shape during cooking and gets crispy on the outside. Softer tofu varieties will be harder to fry and may become mushy.

Is this dish gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels to be sure.

Can I make this stir fry spicy?

Definitely! Add chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for some heat. You can also garnish with fresh sliced chilies for extra kick.

How can I make the tofu crispier?

Make sure to coat the tofu evenly with cornstarch and don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Cooking on medium heat allows the tofu to brown nicely without steaming.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a warm pan of this Tofu & Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe fresh off the stove. It combines simple ingredients into a dish that’s rich in flavor, texture, and color, making it a go-to anytime you want a satisfying meal without hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite easy homemade dinners.