🥦 Roasted Broccoli and Whipped Tofu With Chile Crisp Crunch

Tender broccoli over a rich tofu-cashew cream, finished with a spicy, crunchy cashew and panko topping. Original Recipe

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Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings4

Ingredients

  • 1½ pounds broccoli (about 2 medium heads), cut into 1-inch florets
  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup cashews, coarsely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chile crisp, plus more for serving if desired
  • ⅓ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 14 ounces silken tofu, drained
  • 1 cup cashew butter
  • 6 tablespoons water

Instructions

1
Heat the oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Add the broccoli, drizzle with 3 tablespoons olive oil and the soy sauce, season lightly with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Arrange in an even layer and scatter the sliced garlic over the top.
2
Cover tightly with another sheet of aluminum foil and seal the edges. Bake until the broccoli is crisp-tender, about 15 minutes.
3
While the broccoli bakes, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the cashews, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
4
Stir the chile crisp into the cashews, then add the panko. Cook, stirring frequently, until the bread crumbs are golden and toasted, 2 to 3 minutes. Season to taste and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
5
Combine the drained silken tofu, cashew butter, and 6 tablespoons water in a small food processor. Blend until light and fluffy, then season generously with salt and pepper. Spread the whipped tofu mixture over a serving platter or shallow bowl.
6
Arrange the hot broccoli over the whipped tofu. Drizzle with extra chile crisp if desired and sprinkle generously with the cashew-panko crunch. Serve immediately with any remaining topping on the side.

💡 Chef's Tips

  • Seal the foil well: The enclosed packet traps steam, helping the broccoli cook quickly while staying moist and bright.
  • Watch the panko: Bread crumbs brown quickly. Stir continuously once they enter the skillet.
  • Keep the crunch separate: Add the topping immediately before serving so it stays crisp.
  • Versatile topping: The chile crisp, cashew, and panko mixture is also excellent over noodles, roasted vegetables, or salad greens.
  • Control the heat: Chile crisp brands vary. Start with less and serve extra at the table.
  • Nutrition: Approximately 800 calories and 33 grams of protein per serving.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Weeknight