Description
This Crispy Sesame Tofu recipe offers a deliciously crunchy and flavorful plant-based dish perfect for a healthy snack or a protein-packed addition to any meal. The tofu cubes are coated with a garlic-infused cornstarch mixture, baked to crispy perfection with a nutty sesame oil glaze, and finished with toasted sesame seeds and a savory soy sauce brush for extra umami.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu Preparation
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
Coating
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Seasoning and Glaze
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for glaze)
Instructions
- Press and Prepare Tofu: Press the tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into evenly sized cubes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Coat Tofu: In a bowl, mix the cornstarch and garlic powder thoroughly. Toss the tofu cubes in this mixture until they are completely coated, which helps create a crispy texture when baked.
- Apply Sesame Oil: Drizzle the sesame oil over the coated tofu and gently mix to ensure each cube is well coated with the oil. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet to allow even cooking.
- Bake with Sesame Seeds: Bake the tofu for 25 to 30 minutes, adding the sesame seeds during the last 5 minutes of baking to toast them without burning.
- Flip and Glaze: Halfway through baking, flip the tofu cubes to promote even browning on all sides. About 10 minutes before finishing, brush the tofu cubes with the soy sauce to add a savory glaze and extra flavor.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is essential to remove moisture and achieve extra crispiness.
- Flipping the tofu halfway ensures an even golden crust on all sides.
- Add sesame seeds near the end of baking to prevent burning while maximizing their nutty aroma.
- Serve crispy tofu as a snack, appetizer, or tossed into salads and stir-fries.
- For gluten-free options, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
