Description
Garlic Sesame Tofu is a crispy, protein-packed dish featuring golden tofu coated in a savory garlic-sesame sauce. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans, it’s a quick and flavorful meal that pairs well with rice, noodles, or veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Tofu:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or vegetable oil)
For the Garlic Sesame Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp Sriracha or chili flakes (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Additional sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
- Press the tofu by wrapping it in a clean towel and placing a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
- Toss the tofu with soy sauce and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Tofu
- Pan-Frying Method: Heat 1 tbsp of neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook tofu for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Baking Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Heat sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and Sriracha.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens (1-2 minutes).
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Add cooked tofu to the pan with the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and stir well.
- Serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and extra sesame seeds.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add extra Sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Sweet & Tangy: Substitute maple syrup with orange juice.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in crushed peanuts or cashews.
- Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Vegan, Vegetarian
- Method: Pan-fried, Baked
- Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-inspired
Keywords: crispy tofu, garlic sesame sauce, vegan tofu recipe, plant-based protein, Asian tofu dish