Description
This crispy sesame tofu is golden and crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in a flavorful sticky sauce. It’s the perfect plant-based dish, served over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Crispy Tofu
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or vegetable oil)
For the Sticky Sesame Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tofu
Press the tofu for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes and toss with cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Tofu
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sticky Sauce
In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha. Stir and let simmer for one minute. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until thickened.
4. Coat the Tofu
Return the crispy tofu to the pan and toss until evenly coated in the sticky sauce. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and mix well.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and extra sesame seeds.
Notes
- For extra crunch, bake or air fry the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before tossing in the sauce.
- Add veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a more filling dish.
- Make it spicier by adding extra chili flakes or doubling the sriracha.
- Swap tofu for tempeh or cauliflower for a variation on this dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~250 per serving