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Gluten-Free High-Protein Vegan Tempeh and Broccoli Stir-Fry

By Freeflourish Test KitchenReviewed by Freeflourish Editorial TeamPublished Apr 24, 2026 · Updated May 11, 2026
Asian-inspired 25 mins glutenfreeveganhighproteindairyfreeeasyfamilyfriendlyquickrecipesmaincoursebudgetfriendly

Prepare this quick and easy gluten-free vegan stir-fry packed with protein-rich tempeh and crisp broccoli. A budget-friendly, family-friendly main course perfect for nourishing dinners or meal prep in 30 minutes or less.

Gluten-Free High-Protein Vegan Tempeh and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Prep 10 min
Cook 15 min
Total 25 min
Servings 4
Difficulty easy
Cuisine Asian-inspired

Recipe Details

Prep10 min
Cook15 min
Total25 min
Servings4
Difficultyeasy
CuisineAsian-inspired
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Ingredients

Servings 4
  • 8 ounces gluten-free tempeh, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon avocado or vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or gluten-free agave nectar
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Press the tempeh to remove excess moisture: wrap in a clean towel and place a heavy pan on top for 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the gluten-free tamari, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and vegetable broth. Set aside.
  3. Heat the avocado or vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  4. Add tempeh cubes to the pan and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove tempeh from pan and set aside.
  5. In the same pan, add the toasted sesame oil. Sauté the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Add broccoli florets and red bell pepper slices. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
  7. Return the tempeh to the pan. Pour the tamari sauce mixture over the tempeh and vegetables.
  8. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken and coat the ingredients.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
  11. Serve hot on its own or over steamed rice or gluten-free noodles as desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reader questions and answers for this recipe will appear here.

This Gluten-Free High-Protein Vegan Tempeh and Broccoli Stir-Fry is versatile and adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences. Consider the following ingredient substitutions while maintaining its gluten-free, vegan, and family-friendly profile:

  • Tempeh: Replace with firm tofu or chickpeas for similar protein content and texture.
  • Gluten-Free Tamari or Coconut Aminos: For soy-free needs, use only coconut aminos or create a homemade sauce with molasses and vinegar.
  • Toasted Sesame Oil: Substitute with toasted walnut or pumpkin seed oil for a nutty flavor (avoid if nut allergies are a concern).
  • Avocado or Vegetable Oil: Use olive or other neutral oils; avoid if a low-fat diet is followed.
  • Maple Syrup or Gluten-Free Agave Nectar: Swap with date syrup or brown rice syrup for vegan, gluten-free sweetness.
  • Vegetable Broth or Water: Try mushroom broth for added depth and umami flavor.
  • Red Bell Pepper: For a low-carb alternative, substitute with zucchini or snap peas.
  • Optional Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Omit for children or sensitive eaters; smoked paprika can offer mild warmth instead.

Each substitution supports dietary restrictions or preferences without sacrificing flavor, texture, or nutrition, making this recipe a flexible addition to your meal rotation.

Allergen Overlap Note

While this recipe is crafted to be naturally gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free, please be aware of potential allergen overlaps and cross-contamination risks when sourcing ingredients and preparing meals.

  • Gluten: Always verify that processed condiments like tamari or soy sauce are certified gluten-free. Shared utensils or cooking surfaces with gluten-containing foods may cause cross-contamination.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Although this recipe is nut-free, it includes toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil. Sesame is a common allergen—omit or substitute as needed for allergies.
  • Dairy: This recipe contains no dairy ingredients, but be mindful of cross-contact if preparing dairy-free meals simultaneously.
  • Other Allergens: Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans; it is not suitable for those with soy allergies.

For safe gluten-free cooking across categories like Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Desserts, Snacks, Soups & Salads, Gluten-Free Baking, Quick & Easy, Family-Friendly, and Holiday & Seasonal, always use dedicated gluten-free utensils, clean surfaces thoroughly, and source certified gluten-free ingredients. This approach ensures delicious, inclusive, and safe freeflourish recipes.

Texture Expectations

Gluten-free recipes such as this high-protein vegan tempeh and broccoli stir-fry feature a delightful texture contrast between firm, chewy tempeh cubes and crisp-tender broccoli and bell peppers for a satisfying bite.

Unlike gluten-containing dishes that rely on gluten for elasticity and structure, gluten-free savory meals focus on maintaining the natural texture integrity of vegetables and plant-based proteins without becoming soggy or overly soft.

The slightly thickened sauce balances moisture with the tempeh's chewiness and the fresh crunch of vegetables, creating a harmonious mouthfeel. Similar attention is given across other gluten-free freeflourish recipes in categories like Quick & Easy and Family-Friendly.

Overall, freeflourish gluten-free dishes are crafted to deliver fresh, hearty, and satisfying textures, showing that gluten-free doesn’t mean compromising taste or quality.

Dining With Non Gf Family Note

When preparing gluten-free meals like this vegan tempeh and broccoli stir-fry in households with both gluten-free and non-gluten-free members, prioritize safety and avoid cross-contamination by following these guidelines:

  • Separate utensils and cookware: Designate cutting boards, knives, pots, and pans specifically for gluten-free cooking.
  • Clean surfaces thoroughly: Wipe down countertops, stovetops, and prep areas before and after gluten-free meal preparation.
  • Store ingredients separately: Keep gluten-free products sealed and away from gluten-containing foods.
  • Cook gluten-free dishes first: Prepare gluten-free meals before handling gluten-containing items, and wash hands thoroughly.
  • Use separate toasters and appliances: Avoid sharing or clean meticulously between uses.
  • Educate family members: Communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure support and vigilance.
  • Plan shared meals wisely: Choose naturally gluten-free recipes from categories like Breakfast, Soups & Salads, Gluten-Free Baking, Family-Friendly for safe shared meals.

These steps help maintain a safe, inclusive kitchen and enjoyable dining experiences for all family members.

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