Glazed Tofu and Broccoli: The Non-Mushy Secret

Craving a satisfying and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further! This glazed tofu and broccoli recipe is a game-changer. Forget any past experiences with bland or mushy tofu – this method guarantees perfectly firm and flavorful tofu that’s coated in a delicious, glossy glaze. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that even meat-eaters will love.

Why You’ll Love This Glazed Tofu and Broccoli

This recipe isn’t just another way to prepare tofu; it’s a flavor explosion! Here’s why it’s a total winner:

• Perfect Texture: We’re talking about crispy on the outside, tender on the inside tofu – no more mush!
• Flavorful Glaze: The savory-sweet glaze coats the tofu and broccoli beautifully, creating a restaurant-quality taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Vegan: A great source of plant-based protein and packed with nutritious broccoli.
• Versatile: Easily customizable to your preferences – add your favorite veggies or spice it up!

Gathering Your Ingredients for Glazed Tofu and Broccoli

The key to this incredible glazed tofu and broccoli lies in using high-quality, fresh ingredients. We’re aiming for a balance of textures and flavors: crispy tofu, tender-crisp broccoli, and a luscious, savory-sweet glaze. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:

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• Extra-firm tofu (1 block, 14-16 ounces): This is non-negotiable! Extra-firm tofu has the least amount of water and will hold its shape beautifully when pressed and baked. Don’t even think about using silken tofu for this recipe; it’s a different beast altogether. Look for tofu that is vacuum packed, which tends to be firmer.
• Fresh broccoli florets (3-4 cups): Fresh broccoli provides a vibrant color, a satisfying crunch, and a healthy dose of vitamins. Make sure the florets are tightly closed and a deep green color. You can substitute frozen broccoli florets, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free, 1/4 cup): This is the base of our savory glaze. Soy sauce adds a salty, umami-rich flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully. If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a perfect substitute.
• Brown sugar or maple syrup (2 tablespoons): These ingredients provide the sweetness in our glaze. Brown sugar adds a slightly molasses-like flavor, while maple syrup offers a more delicate sweetness. Feel free to experiment and use your preference!
• Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Cornstarch plays two crucial roles in this recipe. First, it helps to create a crispy coating on the tofu. Second, it acts as a thickening agent for the glaze, giving it that perfect glossy texture.
• Water or vegetable broth (1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons): This liquid is used to thin out the sauce and create the cornstarch slurry. Vegetable broth adds a bit more flavor, but water works just as well. If you are making your own broth, you can use the recipe from https://easyrecipeschef.com/garden-vegetable-broth-a-flavorful-healthy-recipe/
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that is essential to the glaze. Freshly minced garlic is always best for optimal flavor.
• Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Ginger provides a warm, slightly spicy flavor that complements the garlic and soy sauce perfectly. Freshly grated ginger is recommended.
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): A small amount of sesame oil adds a nutty, fragrant aroma to the glaze. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it!
• Neutral oil (like vegetable or canola, 2 tablespoons): We need a neutral-flavored oil for baking the tofu and sauteing the broccoli. Vegetable or canola oil are good choices.
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish): Toasted sesame seeds add a touch of visual appeal and a nutty crunch to the finished dish. Toasting them brings out their flavor.
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish): Sliced green onions add a pop of fresh flavor and color to the final dish.

Crafting Your Glazed Tofu and Broccoli: Step-by-Step

Ready to make some magic? Don’t be intimidated by tofu – this recipe walks you through each step, ensuring perfectly glazed tofu and broccoli every time. The key is pressing the tofu properly to get the right texture. Let’s get started!

1. Press the Tofu: The Secret to Firmness. This is the most crucial step! Begin by draining the tofu from its packaging. Wrap it thoroughly in several layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Then, place a heavy object on top – think books, cans, or even a cast iron skillet. Alternatively, use a tofu press if you have one. Pressing the tofu for at least 30 minutes (or 15-20 minutes in a tofu press) removes excess water, which is essential for achieving that desirable firm texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s the key to avoiding mushy tofu.
2. Cube the Pressed Tofu: Once the tofu has been pressed, unwrap it and cut it into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch in size. Uniform size helps the tofu to cook evenly.
3. Coat with Cornstarch: Building a Crispy Crust. Place the tofu cubes in a medium bowl and toss them with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Ensure that each cube is evenly coated with a light dusting of cornstarch. This coating will create a delicious crispy crust when baked.
4. Preheat and Prep: Baking for Golden Perfection. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). While the oven is heating, toss the cornstarch-coated tofu with 1 tablespoon of neutral oil. Then, spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using parchment paper prevents the tofu from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
5. Bake the Tofu: Achieving the Perfect Texture. Bake the tofu for 20-25 minutes, flipping it halfway through, until it’s golden brown and firm. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so adjust accordingly.
6. Prepare the Sauce: A Symphony of Flavors. While the tofu is baking, prepare the flavorful glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), brown sugar (or maple syrup), minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Then, add 1/4 cup of water or vegetable broth. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
7. Create the Cornstarch Slurry: Thickening Power. In a separate small cup, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water or vegetable broth. This cornstarch slurry will thicken the sauce and give it that glossy sheen. Make sure there are no lumps in the slurry.
8. Prepare the Broccoli: Tender-Crisp Goodness. Steam or lightly blanch the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. You want them to be cooked through but still retain a bit of crunch. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy, so watch it carefully.
9. Saute the Broccoli: Enhancing the Flavor. Heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the steamed broccoli and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step adds a bit of char and enhances the flavor of the broccoli.
10. Add the Sauce: Creating a Luscious Glaze. Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet with the broccoli. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
11. Thicken the Sauce: Achieving the Perfect Consistency. Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce, whisking constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1-2 minutes. Continuous whisking prevents the sauce from clumping.
12. Combine Tofu and Broccoli: A Harmonious Union. Gently add the baked tofu cubes to the skillet with the sauce and broccoli. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the glaze. Be careful not to break the tofu cubes.
13. Serve and Garnish: The Final Flourish. Serve the glazed tofu and broccoli immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Glazed Tofu and Broccoli Every Time

Want to take your glazed tofu and broccoli to the next level? Here are a few extra tips and tricks:

• Don’t skip the pressing! Seriously, it’s the most important step. The drier the tofu, the crispier it will get.
• Adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup.
• Add some spice. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha adds a nice kick to the glaze.
• Roast the broccoli. For a different texture, try roasting the broccoli instead of steaming or blanching it. Toss it with a little oil and salt and roast at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
• Make it a bowl! Serve the glazed tofu and broccoli over rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. You might even consider trying our glazed salmon rice bowl recipe: https://easyrecipeschef.com/glazed-salmon-rice-bowl-recipe/.

What to Serve With Glazed Tofu and Broccoli

This glazed tofu and broccoli is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:

Your Glazed Tofu Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using. This will help to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute other sweeteners like honey or agave nectar for the brown sugar or maple syrup. However, keep in mind that the flavor of the glaze will be slightly different.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover glazed tofu and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the tofu and sauce separately ahead of time. Store the baked tofu in an airtight container and the sauce in a separate container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add the tofu and broccoli.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as written.

Enjoy Your Homemade Glazed Tofu and Broccoli!

There you have it – a foolproof recipe for delicious, non-mushy glazed tofu and broccoli that’s sure to become a new favorite. It’s a versatile, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch. Now, go ahead and give it a try! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. We love hearing from you! Share this recipe with your friends and family and spread the tofu love!