Crispy Sesame Tofu

Why Make This Recipe

Crispy Sesame Tofu is a delicious and healthy dish that brings wonderful flavors to your table. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a vegetarian or vegan option that doesn’t skimp on taste. The crispy texture and nutty flavor from sesame seeds make this dish a favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients, making it a great meal for busy weekdays or special occasions.

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. Cover with another towel and press down lightly to remove most of the water.
Transfer the tofu to a shallow dish. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Drizzle half of this marinade over the tofu, flip the slices, and drizzle the rest on the other side. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to 1 hour.
Preheat an air fryer to 400°F or a regular oven to 425°F.
Place the sesame seeds on a small plate. In another bowl, beat the egg. Dip each tofu slice in the egg, letting the excess drip off, then coat with sesame seeds on both sides. Place them on a plate.
Spray one side of the tofu with olive oil, then flip and spray the other side.
If using an air fryer, arrange the tofu in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway until it is toasted and crisp.
If baking, place the tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the edges are browned and the sesame seeds are crisp.
Make the sriracha mayo by mixing the mayo and sriracha in a small bowl.
Serve the tofu with rice, snap peas, edamame, scallions, sriracha mayo, and a drizzle of tamari.

How to Serve Crispy Sesame Tofu

Serve the crispy sesame tofu warm, alongside a generous serving of Cilantro Lime Rice or Cauliflower Rice. Add the steamed snap peas and edamame for a colorful and nutritious meal. Don’t forget a drizzle of tamari and a dollop of sriracha mayo on the side for extra flavor. This dish makes a great main course for a family dinner or a fancy lunch.

How to Store Crispy Sesame Tofu

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crispy tofu can last for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to use the air fryer or oven to help regain some of its original crispiness instead of the microwave, which can make it soggy.

Tips to Make Crispy Sesame Tofu

Pressing the tofu well before marinating helps it absorb more flavor.
Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer or baking sheet for even cooking.
Feel free to adjust the spice level of the sriracha mayo according to your preference.
Try adding fresh veggies or other proteins to complete the meal.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different seasonings or dipping sauces. For instance, try adding some chili flakes or fresh herbs to the marinade for added flavor. You can also serve it with quinoa or a salad instead of rice.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular tofu instead of extra-firm tofu?

Using regular tofu might not give you the same crispy texture, as it contains more moisture. It’s best to stick with extra-firm tofu.

2. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by replacing the egg wash with a plant-based alternative, like a mixture of flaxseed meal and water.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tofu and marinate it in advance. Just cook it fresh when you are ready to serve for the best texture.