This crispy baked sesame tofu is a tasty treat! It’s golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to any meal.
I love serving it over rice or tossing it in salads. Plus, baking is way easier than frying, and my kitchen stays clean. How great is that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tofu: Extra-firm tofu is essential for this dish as it holds its shape and becomes crispy when baked. If you can’t find extra-firm, firm tofu works in a pinch, but be sure to press it well to remove excess moisture.
Soy Sauce: Use soy sauce for a traditional flavor or tamari for a gluten-free option. If you’re looking for a lower sodium version, find reduced-sodium soy sauce. Coconut aminos is another great alternative that’s slightly sweeter.
Sesame Oil: This adds a rich, nutty flavor. If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use another oil like olive or avocado oil, but keep in mind it won’t have the same deep flavor.
Hoisin Sauce: It’s sweet and slightly tangy. If you’re out, a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a bit of sugar can give a similar taste. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
Maple Syrup or Honey: This adds sweetness to the sauce. If you’re vegan, stick to maple syrup; otherwise, honey works well too. Agave syrup can be used as another sweet substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tofu is Crispy?
Getting crispy tofu can sometimes be tricky, but here are some important tips to help you out!
- Always press your tofu. This removes water and helps it become crispy. Use a tofu press or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel with weights on top.
- Coat the tofu evenly with cornstarch. This helps create a nice, crunchy texture. Make sure every piece is well coated.
- Space them out on the baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd the tofu; this allows heat to circulate and crispen them up.
- Flipping halfway is crucial! This ensures all sides become golden and crispy.
- Finish with a quick bake after adding the sauce. This caramelizes the flavors, making your tofu extra tasty.
Crispy Baked Sesame Tofu Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tofu:
- 14 oz (400g) extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for tossing)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For Serving:
- Cooked brown rice or white rice
- Steamed broccoli
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white and black mixed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to bake, totaling about 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s an excellent option for a tasty vegetarian meal that’s both quick and scrumptious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and hot and ready for the tofu. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to make cleanup easier!
2. Prepare the Tofu:
Take your drained and pressed tofu and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a mixing bowl. It’s a good idea to press out as much water as possible so the tofu turns out crispy.
3. Coat Your Tofu:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the tofu cubes and toss gently until they are well coated. This step is key for achieving that crunchy texture!
4. Arrange the Tofu:
Spread the tofu in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or spray lightly with vegetable oil for extra crispiness.
5. Bake the Tofu:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the tofu halfway through the baking time. You’re looking for a nice golden color and crispy texture!
6. Make the Sauce:
While the tofu is baking, prepare the sauce. In a bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, maple syrup (or honey), rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This sauce will add an exciting flavor to your crispy tofu!
7. Toss the Tofu with the Sauce:
Once the tofu is crispy and golden, take it out of the oven. Gently toss the hot tofu with the sauce until each piece is well coated.
8. Add Sesame Seeds:
Now, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the tofu. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the sauce caramelize slightly and the seeds to toast.
9. Serve Your Dish:
Time to eat! Serve the crispy baked sesame tofu over bowls of cooked brown rice or white rice. Pair it with steamed broccoli on the side for a complete meal.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds on top for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious crispy baked sesame tofu bowl!
FAQ for Crispy Baked Sesame Tofu
Can I Use Different Types of Tofu?
Yes! While extra-firm tofu is best for a crispy texture, you can use firm tofu if you don’t have extra-firm on hand. Just ensure you press it well to remove excess moisture for the best result.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute soy sauce for tamari, which is a gluten-free variety. Additionally, check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free or make your own to ensure everything fits your dietary needs.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the crispy texture. You can also add a splash of water to the pan to create some steam while reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables. Broccoli works well, but bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can add more color and nutrition. Just make sure they are steamed or lightly cooked, so they pair nicely with the crispy tofu.
