Name: Crispy Sesame Tofu
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 7 ounces extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 4 (1/2-inch thick) slices; 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon light brown sugar; 1 garlic clove, grated; 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1/3 cup white and black sesame seeds; 1 egg; Olive oil spray; 4 teaspoons mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce; Cilantro Lime Rice or Cauliflower Rice; 1 cup snap peas, steamed and chopped; 1/3 cup frozen edamame, steamed; 1 scallion, chopped; Tamari, for drizzling

why make this recipe

Crispy Sesame Tofu is a delicious and healthy dish that is great for anyone looking to enjoy plant-based meals. Tofu is packed with protein and has a unique texture that can absorb flavors very well. This recipe creates a crunchy outer layer while keeping the inside soft and tender. Whether you are a tofu lover or trying it for the first time, you will likely enjoy the combination of flavors and textures in this dish.

how to make Crispy Sesame Tofu

Ingredients:

7 ounces extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 4 (1/2-inch thick) slices
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon light brown sugar
1 garlic clove, grated
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1/3 cup white and black sesame seeds
1 egg
Olive oil spray
4 teaspoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
Cilantro Lime Rice or Cauliflower Rice
1 cup snap peas, steamed and chopped
1/3 cup frozen edamame, steamed
1 scallion, chopped
Tamari, for drizzling

Directions:

Place the tofu slices on a kitchen towel or paper towels. Place another towel on top and lightly press to remove most of the water from the tofu. Transfer to a shallow dish big enough for the tofu to lie in a single layer.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Drizzle half of the marinade over the tofu, then gently flip and drizzle the rest on the other side. Marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to 1 hour.
Preheat an air fryer to 400°F or preheat a regular oven to 425°F.
Place the sesame seeds on a small plate. In a small bowl, beat the egg.
Remove each tofu slice from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off, then dip in the egg. Using a fork, dip in the sesame seeds, coating each side. Transfer to a plate. Spray one side with olive oil, then gently flip and spray the other side.
To make the tofu in an air fryer: Working in batches, arrange a single layer of the tofu in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until toasted and crisp.
To bake the tofu in the oven: Place the tofu in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip and bake for 10 to 15 minutes more, or until the edges of the tofu are browned and the sesame seeds are crisp.
Make the sriracha mayo by mixing together the mayo and sriracha in a small bowl.
Serve the tofu steaks with rice, snap peas, edamame, scallions, sriracha mayo, and tamari for drizzling.

how to serve Crispy Sesame Tofu

Crispy Sesame Tofu is best served warm. You can put it on a plate with a side of Cilantro Lime Rice or Cauliflower Rice. Add some steamed snap peas and edamame for a colorful plate. Drizzle some tamari on top for extra flavor and serve with a side of sriracha mayo for dipping.

how to store Crispy Sesame Tofu

If you have leftovers, store the tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3 to 5 days. To reheat, you can use an air fryer or an oven to keep the tofu crispy. Avoid microwaving as it will make the tofu soggy.

tips to make Crispy Sesame Tofu

Press the tofu well to remove excess water; this helps it absorb the marinade better.
Marinate the tofu for longer if you want a stronger flavor.
Experiment with different dipping sauces by adding your favorite spices or herbs to mayonnaise.

variation

You can add more vegetables to the plate like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of Sriracha in the mayo or add chili flakes to the marinade.

FAQs

Can I use soft tofu instead of extra-firm tofu?
- It is best to use extra-firm tofu for this recipe to achieve the right texture. Soft tofu might fall apart during cooking.
Is it necessary to use an air fryer?
- No, you can bake the tofu in a regular oven. Both methods can make crispy tofu, just be sure to follow the directions for each method.
Can I make this dish vegan?
- Yes! You can substitute the egg with a vegan egg replacer or leave it out and use starch to help the sesame seeds stick.