We’ve all had those nights—hungry, tired, not quite ready to reach for takeout but also not feeling up to anything fancy. Enter: Tofu & Broccoli in Garlic Sauce. It’s fast, fuss-free, and full of that bold, savory stir-fry flavor you crave, without leaving you in a food coma.
This recipe brings together golden pan-fried tofu and crisp broccoli in a garlicky soy glaze that tastes like it should take way more time. The best part? It’s ready in 15 minutes flat and uses just one pan. So yes, dinner is sorted—and so is cleanup.
🥢 Why You’ll Love It
- Tofu gives you plant-based protein that’s filling but light.
- Broccoli adds crunch, fiber, and a hit of greens.
- Garlic soy sauce ties it all together with that delicious takeout-style taste.
- Optional cornstarch makes the sauce glossy and satisfying, but it’s still great without it.
🔥 Real-Life Cooking Win
The first time I made this was after a long workday when my fridge was looking a little bare. I had half a block of tofu, some frozen broccoli, and garlic (always garlic). I threw it all together in a pan, added a splash of soy, and was shocked at how legit it tasted. It’s now a go-to when I want something healthy but comforting—especially when I don’t want to spend the whole evening in the kitchen.
🧄 Tofu & Broccoli in Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
- 100g firm tofu, cubed
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- ½ tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- ¼ cup water
Instructions:
- Heat a pan over medium heat. Add a little oil and pan-fry the tofu cubes until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add broccoli and water.
- Stir in soy sauce and cornstarch (if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes until broccoli is tender and sauce thickens slightly.
- Return tofu to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.
To serve: Spoon over instant brown rice or noodles for a full, satisfying meal.
🥡 Healthy Hacks & Add-Ons
- Add chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for heat.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veg.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Top with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for crunch.
Tofu & Broccoli in Garlic Sauce is everything you need in a solo dinner—quick, nourishing, and full of flavor. No complicated ingredients. No mess. Just good food, fast.
Want more easy vegetarian weeknight wins? Stick around—I’ve got plenty more where this came from. 🧄🥦🍜
