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Delicious Sesame Tofu photo

Sesame Tofu

This Sesame Tofu is a flavorful delight! Crispy tofu coated in a savory sauce, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu:
  • 2 blocks extra-firm tofu pressed
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 8 green onions divided and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon avocado oil for sautéing garlic
  • 3-5 cloves garlic minced
For the Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch for thickening sauce
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Wok
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Directions:
  1. Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the blocks in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, place them on a plate, and weigh them down with another plate or a heavy object. Let them sit for about 30 minutes.
  2. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. This allows for maximum crispy surface area when sautéed.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of low-sodium tamari or soy sauce. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture until they are evenly coated.
  4. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated tofu cubes. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add 1 teaspoon of avocado oil and lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of tamari or soy sauce, water, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the garlic and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently.
  7. Add the crispy tofu back to the skillet along with the cut green onions and sesame seeds. Toss everything together until the tofu is well-coated in the sauce and heated through.
  8. Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the tofu. Give it a final toss to incorporate the flavors.
  9. Serve the Sesame Tofu hot over a bed of cooked rice or alongside steamed vegetables, garnished with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a spicier version, add chili sauce or red pepper flakes.
  • This dish freezes well; store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.