ChilliFridgeToTable

What to Make With Tofu and Broccoli: 3 Easy Dinners

Tofu and broccoli is a classic pairing, and it's simple to get right at home. The trick is browning the tofu first so it has some texture, then cooking the broccoli until it's bright green and just tender.

Press the tofu between a couple of towels for a few minutes, cut it into even cubes, use a hot pan and give the pieces space so they brown instead of steaming.

Got more in the fridge? Tell Chilly what you have, or snap a photo, and we'll pick a dinner for you. Free. → Find tonight's dinner

Tonight's picks

1. Tofu stir-fry with broccoli and rice (one pan plus rice)

Uses: tofu, broccoli, rice, garlic, oil

  1. Cut the broccoli into bite-size pieces.
  2. Heat oil in a wide pan and stir-fry the tofu and garlic until browned.
  3. Add the broccoli and stir-fry until tender.
  4. Serve over rice.

Keeps: 3 days in the fridge. Reheat it in a pan, not the microwave, to keep it crisp.

Full recipe

2. Korean-style tofu stir-fry with broccoli and rice (one pan plus rice)

Uses: tofu, broccoli, rice, garlic, oil

  1. Cut the broccoli into bite-size pieces.
  2. Brown the tofu and garlic in hot oil.
  3. Add the broccoli and cook until tender.
  4. Serve over rice. Gochujang or sesame oil is great here if you have it.

Keeps: good packed for lunch.

Full recipe

3. Mapo tofu with broccoli and rice (spicy, home-style)

Uses: tofu, broccoli, rice, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, chili bean paste, scallion

  1. Start the rice. Cube the tofu and cut the broccoli into florets.
  2. Fry the garlic and ginger in oil, then stir in the chili bean paste.
  3. Add the tofu, broccoli, soy sauce and a splash of water. Simmer until the broccoli is tender.
  4. Top with scallion and serve over rice.

Keeps: the flavor deepens overnight.

Full recipe

Each recipe serves 2. Double it for 4.

Make it with leftovers

Leftover rice works best for stir-fry. Day-old rice crisps up in the pan.

Pantry staples you'll need

Oil, garlic, rice and salt. Soy sauce is nice for all three. Chili bean paste for the mapo tofu.

No broccoli: use frozen mixed vegetables, green beans or bok choy.

Picky-eater tweaks

  • Brown the tofu well. Crispy edges can win over tofu doubters.
  • Skip the chili bean paste for kids and serve soy sauce on the side.
  • Tofu and broccoli make a filling, meatless plate.

Have something else in the fridge?

Try chicken and broccoli, eggs and rice or just rice. Or tell Chilly what you have.

FAQ

What kind of tofu is best for stir-fry?

Firm or extra-firm. It holds its shape and browns well.

Do I have to press tofu?

It helps it brown, but it's not required. Patting it dry with a towel works too.

Is tofu and broccoli a full meal?

With rice, yes.

Is it kid-friendly?

The plain garlic stir-fry is the mildest. Crispy tofu cubes are a good bet for kids.

What if I don't have rice?

Serve it over noodles, or on its own.