If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavorful, and totally satisfying weeknight meal, this Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s packed with fresh veggies, perfectly crispy tofu, and a rich, garlicky sauce that somehow balances sweet, tangy, and a little kick of heat. I always find that this recipe is a winner when I want something quick but still feel like I’m treating myself to a healthy, delicious dinner.

One of the best parts about this Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is how versatile and forgiving it is. Whether you’re a tofu novice or a seasoned stir-fry pro, these steps will help you get that perfect golden crust on your tofu and tender-crisp veggies every time. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easily customizable, so it works great whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe come together to create that classic balance of textures and bold flavors. When shopping, aim for extra firm tofu for best results and try to get fresh, vibrant vegetables – they really make a difference in taste and texture.

Low sodium soy sauce: Keeps the saltiness in check so you can control the flavor better.
Vegetable stock (low sodium) or water: Adds depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Sesame oil: Just a teaspoon gives that signature nutty aroma to the dish.
Rice vinegar: A touch of acidity brightens up all the flavors beautifully.
Garlic: Both minced and sliced garlic bring powerful layers of flavor.
Ginger: Fresh and zesty—don’t skip it because it adds a subtle warmth that complements the tofu.
Sugar or honey: I like honey for a natural sweetness, but sugar works just as well.
Cornstarch: For thickening the sauce and giving the tofu a lovely crispy texture.
Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat really wakes up the flavors.
Extra firm tofu: The star of this dish, make sure to press it well to get rid of excess moisture.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Basics that enhance every bite.
Neutral oil (vegetable or canola): Perfect for frying tofu without overpowering the flavors.
Broccoli florets: Crisp and fresh, they add a satisfying crunch.
Carrots: Adds color and a subtle sweetness.
Red bell pepper: For juicy, vibrant pops in every bite.

Variations

Whenever I make this Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, I love playing around with little tweaks to keep things interesting — and I encourage you to do the same! These variations keep the recipe flexible and friendly to your taste buds or dietary needs.

Make it spicy: I like adding an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or even some sriracha for a fiery kick.
Swap veggies: Try snap peas, baby corn, or mushrooms if broccoli or bell peppers aren’t your favorites.
Use tamari or coconut aminos: For gluten-free or soy-free versions, these sauces work beautifully.
Add nuts: Toasted cashews or peanuts add a lovely crunch that I adore on this dish.
Protein swap: Love chicken or shrimp? They fit perfectly here, though I have to say tofu is my personal favorite–it soaks up the sauce just right!

How to Make Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Up That Delicious Stir Fry Sauce

Start by mixing together the soy sauce, vegetable stock, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sugar or honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes until the mixture is smooth and well combined. I find whisking it all up before cooking means everything comes together effortlessly when it hits the pan — no lumps and no fuss.

Step 2: Press and Prepare the Tofu

Getting your tofu just right makes all the difference here. I press mine between paper towels or kitchen towels to squeeze out as much water as possible — sometimes twice! This step ensures the tofu crisps nicely instead of steaming and turning mushy. Then, cube the tofu into bite-sized pieces and toss it with cornstarch, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper so it gets that irresistible golden crust.

Step 3: Crisp Up the Tofu in the Pan

Heat your neutral oil over medium-high heat in a wok or large skillet — make sure it’s hot before adding tofu! Place the tofu cubes in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes until the bottoms are golden brown. Then stir and turn the pieces to get all sides crispy. This step is where the magic happens and your tofu develops that perfect texture.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same pan (no need to wash it — the flavors build up nicely), add the broccoli florets and diced carrots first. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but still have a little crunch. Then toss in the red bell pepper slices and garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes to let everything wake up with those wonderful aromas.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking

Pour your prepared stir fry sauce into the pan with the veggies, and then gently add the tofu back in. Stir gently to coat everything and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender-crisp. You’ll know it’s done when the sauce clings to each bite and the colors are vibrant.

How to Serve Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

A white bowl full of large white tofu cubes sits on the white marbled surface, surrounded by smaller white bowls and ingredients. Below the tofu bowl, there is a white bowl filled with green broccoli florets. To the right, a white bowl holds small orange carrot cubes. Above the carrots, a piece of fresh ginger root lies on the surface next to a small white bowl of red chili flakes. In the center near the top, a white bowl contains dark soy sauce, flanked by a white bowl on the right holding golden-yellow oil and another white bowl on the upper right filled with coarse, light-colored salt. Three garlic cloves rest on the surface on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh cilantro on top – it adds freshness and a nice pop of green that looks inviting. Sometimes I squeeze a little lime over the dish for a zesty lift that brightens every bite, especially if I’m serving it on a warm night.

Side Dishes

To keep the vibe classic and filling, I usually serve this tofu broccoli stir fry over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or some fluffy brown rice for extra fiber. If you prefer noodles, the soy sauce base pairs beautifully with simple stir-fried noodles or even soba.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I occasionally plate this stir fry in individual mini bowls with a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced fresh chili. It turns an everyday meal into something a bit more special and restaurant-worthy. Sometimes serving in lettuce cups adds a fun, fresh twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and eat them within 2-3 days. The tofu holds up well, and the sauce stays nice and thick. Just make sure to cool it fully before refrigerating to keep the quality fresh.

Freezing

I’ve frozen leftover stir fry a couple of times, and while the texture of the broccoli softens slightly upon thawing, the flavors remain great. If you plan to freeze, I’d recommend slightly undercooking your veggies to avoid mushiness when reheated.

Reheating

Reheating this tofu broccoli stir fry in a skillet over medium heat works best — it refreshes the tofu’s crispiness and warms the veggies evenly. Avoid microwaving too long to keep the tofu from becoming rubbery; a quick stir in the pan does the trick.

FAQs

Can I use soft tofu instead of extra firm tofu?

Soft tofu doesn’t hold up well in stir fries because it crumbles easily and doesn’t get crispy. For the best texture and flavor in this Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe, extra firm tofu is your safest bet. Press it well to remove moisture before cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be gluten-free if you swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, both of which are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your other ingredients, but the sauce and vegetables themselves are naturally gluten-free.
How do I get tofu crispy without it sticking to the pan?

Make sure your pan and oil are hot before adding tofu cubes, and don’t move the tofu around too early — let it cook undisturbed so it forms a golden crust. Using a nonstick pan or a well-seasoned wok helps, too. Tossing the tofu in cornstarch before frying also helps create a crispy outer layer.
Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce, chop veggies, and press tofu ahead of time to save cooking time. However, I recommend cooking just before serving to keep tofu crispy and veggies fresh. If needed, store components separately and quickly stir-fry when you’re ready.
What can I serve with this Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe?

This dish goes great with steamed rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a protein boost. For something light, try serving it with cauliflower rice or inside lettuce wraps.

Final Thoughts

This Tofu Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is one of those dishes I find myself coming back to — it’s just so reliable, easy, and satisfying. Whether you’re new to tofu or already a fan, the crispy texture combined with the vibrant veggies and that delicious sauce really makes it feel like a treat. I highly recommend giving it a try for your next dinner. Trust me, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a little gift to your body and your taste buds!