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Sticky Sesame Tofu Recipe

4.5 from 138 reviews

Sticky Sesame Tofu is a deliciously crispy and flavorful plant-based dish, featuring super firm tofu coated in a savory soy and cornstarch mixture, then pan-fried to golden perfection and simmered in a sticky, tangy sesame sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and lime. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a great option for a quick vegan meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu Coating

  • 4 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 16 ounces super firm tofu, cubed and pressed

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons high heat oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)

Sauce

  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • ½ lime, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons minced ginger
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
  • ¼ cup sliced green onion (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Coat the tofu: In a large bowl, combine 4 tablespoons soy sauce and 4 tablespoons cornstarch. Add the cubed and pressed tofu, stirring gently to ensure each piece is fully coated. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl or jar, mix together ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, juice of half a lime, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and 2 tablespoons sesame seeds. Set the sauce mixture aside.
  3. Pan-fry the tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of high heat oil in a large pan over high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated tofu cubes. Cook, turning occasionally, until most or all sides turn golden brown and crispy.
  4. Simmer with sauce: Reduce the heat to a low simmer and carefully pour the prepared sauce over the tofu. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 2 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the tofu evenly.
  5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the sticky sesame tofu hot or cold, garnished with additional sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture for crispier results.
  • You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to taste.
  • Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking during frying.
  • This dish stores well and can be enjoyed cold as a salad topping or warmed up.
  • For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Keywords: Sticky Sesame Tofu, crispy tofu, vegan tofu recipe, sesame sauce, quick vegan dinner, pan-fried tofu