This Crispy Sesame Tofu is incredibly easy to make and tastes amazing! The tofu is baked in a unique way to make it extra crispy and then drenched in a sweet and savory sesame sauce. Serve with rice and steamed broccoli for a delicious dinner!

Crispy Sesame Tofu: Your New Favorite Vegan Weeknight Meal

Welcome to a culinary journey that will transform your perception of tofu! If you’ve ever doubted tofu’s potential, prepare to be amazed by this Crispy Sesame Tofu recipe. It’s not just a dish; it’s a revelation. Imagine perfectly golden, irresistibly crispy tofu bathed in a rich, sweet, and savory sesame sauce, ready to elevate your dinner table. This recipe is designed to be incredibly easy to follow, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation, whether you’re a seasoned vegan chef or simply looking for delicious, plant-based options.

In our household, tofu is a beloved staple, gracing our plates at least once a week. We’re big fans of its versatility and ability to absorb flavors, featuring it in dishes like Vegan Butter Chicken, Crispy Baked Orange Tofu, and Peanut Tofu with Coconut Rice. This Crispy Sesame Tofu now proudly joins that list, quickly becoming a family favorite. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to deliver on flavor, texture, and pure satisfaction.

Why This Crispy Baked Sesame Tofu Will Change Your Mind About Tofu

If you’re someone who believes they don’t like tofu, I am confident this recipe will make you a believer. For many years, the idea of cooking with tofu felt daunting to me. It took quite some time and a lot of trial and error to truly appreciate it. The main reason for my initial hesitation? I was cooking it all wrong! Tofu often gets a bad rap for being bland or having a rubbery texture, but these issues almost always stem from improper preparation. The secret to truly delicious tofu lies in two crucial steps: pressing and proper cooking, particularly baking to achieve that coveted crispy exterior.

Achieving perfectly crispy tofu is key to its appeal. While you can pan-fry tofu to achieve crispiness, I wholeheartedly recommend baking it, and for good reason. When pan-frying, tofu often has a frustrating tendency to stick to the pan, even with generous amounts of oil. There’s nothing more disheartening than a batch of tofu that stubbornly adheres to the surface, breaking apart when you try to flip it. This common issue can make cooking tofu feel like a chore, discouraging many from embracing this wonderful ingredient.

Baking, on the other hand, offers a much more hands-off and foolproof method for achieving superior crispiness. Once you’ve prepped your tofu, you can simply place it in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. This frees you up to effortlessly prepare the delicious sesame sauce that will coat your golden tofu, or to tackle other components of your meal. The result is consistently crispy tofu, often with significantly less oil than pan-frying, making it a healthier and less greasy option. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking for an easy, effective way to cook tofu that delivers on texture every single time.

Essential Ingredients for Your Crispy Sesame Tofu

Crafting this incredible Crispy Sesame Tofu requires a handful of accessible ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and achieving that irresistible texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu: The foundation of our dish. Using firm or extra-firm tofu is crucial for achieving crispiness, as softer varieties tend to fall apart. Remember, pressing the tofu is a non-negotiable first step to remove excess water, allowing it to absorb flavors better and become truly crispy. If you don’t have a dedicated tofu press, a simple method involves wrapping the tofu in paper towels and placing heavy books or a cast iron pan on top for about 20 minutes.
Sesame Oil: This fragrant oil is used both in coating the tofu before baking and in the sauce, providing a distinctive nutty aroma and deep Asian-inspired flavor that is central to the dish.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce (or Tamari): A key savory component for both the tofu marinade and the sesame sauce. Opting for low sodium helps control the overall saltiness. For those following a gluten-free diet, tamari is an excellent, equally delicious substitute.
Cornstarch: This magical ingredient is essential for creating that coveted crispy coating on the tofu and for thickening our luxurious sesame sauce. Arrowroot powder can also be used as an alternative for thickening.
Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent, aromatic depth to the sesame sauce, creating a rich flavor profile. Don’t skimp on the fresh garlic for the best results!
Agave, Maple Syrup, or Brown Sugar: These natural sweeteners balance the savory and tangy notes in the sauce, creating that perfect sweet and savory dynamic. Choose your preferred option based on what you have on hand.
Seasoned Rice Vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness and richness of the sauce, enhancing the overall complexity. Make sure it’s seasoned for the best flavor balance.
Sriracha Hot Sauce: For a touch of heat! The amount can be adjusted to your personal preference, from a mild hint of spice to a fiery kick. It adds an exciting dimension to the sauce.

Recommended Serving Companions:

Cooked Rice: White or brown rice serves as the perfect neutral base to absorb all that delicious sesame sauce.
Chopped Green Onions: For a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of vibrant green color as a garnish.
Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a textural crunch and enhances the nutty sesame flavor.
Steamed Broccoli: (Optional but highly recommended) A side of perfectly steamed broccoli offers a healthy, crisp counterpoint to the rich tofu and sauce, completing this well-rounded meal.

How to Prepare Your Crispy Sesame Tofu: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this flavorful and satisfying Crispy Sesame Tofu is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. (For the full, detailed recipe, please refer to the recipe card below.)

Press the Tofu: This is the most crucial step for achieving that incredible crispy texture. Wrap each block of firm or extra-firm tofu in several layers of paper towels. Place the wrapped tofu on a plate or cutting board, then top it with a heavy object, such as a cast iron pan, a stack of cookbooks, or a dedicated tofu press. Allow it to press for a minimum of 20 minutes, or even up to an hour, to remove as much excess water as possible. The drier the tofu, the crispier it will become!
Prepare for Baking: While your tofu is pressing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet with a small amount of oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Coat and Bake the Tofu: Once pressed, slice the tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes. Transfer the cubes to a large ziplock bag or a spacious mixing bowl. Add 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce (or tamari), and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Seal the bag (or cover the bowl) and gently shake or toss until every tofu cube is evenly coated. Spread the coated tofu in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring pieces are not touching for maximum crispiness. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and delightfully crispy on all sides.
Whip Up the Sesame Sauce: As the tofu bakes, prepare your aromatic sauce on the stovetop. In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of low sodium soy sauce (or tamari), 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of agave (or maple syrup/brown sugar), 1/4 cup of seasoned rice vinegar, and 1-2 teaspoons of Sriracha hot sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level). Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water until you have a smooth slurry with no lumps. Pour this cornstarch mixture into the simmering sauce in the pan, stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Once thickened, remove the pan from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil for an extra layer of nutty flavor.
Combine and Serve: As soon as the tofu is done baking, transfer the crispy cubes directly into the pan with the sesame sauce. Gently toss the tofu until each piece is thoroughly coated in the glistening, sticky sauce. Serve immediately over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, garnished generously with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For a complete and balanced meal, don’t forget a side of vibrant steamed broccoli! Enjoy this incredible vegan creation.

Pan-Frying Tofu: An Alternative Method for Crispiness

While baking is my preferred method for achieving perfectly crispy tofu with minimal fuss, you can certainly pan-fry it if that’s your preferred cooking style or if you’re short on oven space. The key steps for coating the tofu remain the same, ensuring it gets that delicious, crunchy exterior.

After you’ve pressed your tofu and coated it in the sesame oil, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixture, heat approximately 1/4 cup of your preferred cooking oil (such as vegetable or canola oil) in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to steamed, rather than crispy, tofu. You may need to cook the tofu in batches.

Allow the tofu to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on one side until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. Then, using tongs or a spatula, gently flip each piece and continue to cook for a few more minutes on each side until all surfaces are golden and crispy. Once the tofu is cooked to your liking, you can simply add the pre-made sesame sauce ingredients directly to the same pan. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch and water slurry to thicken it, followed by the sesame oil. This method allows you to create the sauce and combine it with the tofu all in one pan, reducing cleanup.

Storing Leftovers and Meal Prepping Tips

This Crispy Sesame Tofu is so delicious, you might not have any leftovers! But if you do, it stores beautifully and makes for fantastic next-day meals.

How to Store Leftovers:

Once cooled, transfer any leftover sesame tofu to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While the tofu may lose a bit of its initial crispiness after refrigeration, the flavors will have deepened, making it just as enjoyable. To re-warm, you can use the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through, or for a slightly crispier result, re-heat in a non-stick pan over medium heat for a few minutes, or even in a toaster oven or air fryer until warmed and slightly re-crisped.

Meal Prep for Lunches:

This recipe is an absolute dream for meal prepping! For quick and easy grab-and-go lunches throughout your week, prepare a larger batch. Divide your cooked rice, crispy sesame tofu, and a portion of steamed broccoli into individual airtight meal prep containers. Sprinkle with fresh chopped green onions and a generous amount of sesame seeds just before sealing. Store these prepped meals in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a healthy, delicious, and satisfying lunch ready whenever hunger strikes. It’s an effortless way to ensure you’re eating well, even on your busiest days!

Unlock More Mouthwatering Tofu Recipes

If this Crispy Sesame Tofu has ignited your love for plant-based cooking, there’s a whole world of incredible tofu recipes waiting for you to explore. Tofu is a remarkably versatile ingredient, capable of transforming into countless savory and delicious dishes. Don’t stop here—continue your tofu adventure with some of these other fantastic recipes:

General Tso’s Tofu: A popular takeout classic, made vegan and incredibly flavorful.
Easy Kung Pao Tofu: Spicy, savory, and packed with peanuts and vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Air Fryer Tofu: Discover how to get perfectly crispy tofu every time using your air fryer – a game changer!
Sticky Sriracha Tofu: For those who love a bit more heat and a wonderfully sticky glaze.
Marinated Tofu (The Best Tofu Ever!): A foundational recipe to master perfectly flavorful and tender tofu for any dish.

square image of a bowl of rice and saucy tofu, sesame seeds and green onions on top

4.56 stars (50 ratings)

Crispy Sesame Tofu

This Crispy Sesame Tofu is incredibly easy to make and tastes amazing! The tofu is baked in a unique way to make it extra crispy and then drenched in a sweet and savory sesame sauce.

Prep: 15 mins

Cook: 25 mins

Tofu Pressing Time: 20 mins

Total: 1 hr

Servings: 6 servings

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
Comment
Save Recipe

Ingredients

For the Tofu

2 (16 ounce) blocks firm or extra-firm tofu
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce *use tamari for gluten free
2 tablespoons cornstarch

For the Sesame Sauce

1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce (or tamari)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup agave, maple syrup or brown sugar
1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar
1-2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce, more or less to taste
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon sesame oil

For Serving

4 cups cooked rice
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Steamed broccoli

Instructions

Press the tofu: Wrap each block of tofu in paper towels. Place a plate or pan on top of the wrapped tofu, and put a couple of heavy books on top of that. Let the tofu press for 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and lightly grease a large baking sheet with oil or line with parchment paper.
Slice the pressed tofu into cubes, then add them to a large ziplock bag (or large bowl), along with the sesame oil, soy sauce and cornstarch. Close the bag, and shake gently to coat. Arrange the tofu evenly on the prepared pan, and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
While the tofu bakes, cook your rice and make the sauce. In a large pan, add the soy sauce, garlic, agave, seasoned rice vinegar and Sriracha hot sauce. Stir and bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together until smooth, then pour into the pan. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens, then turn off the heat. Stir in the sesame oil.
When the tofu is done baking, add it to the sauce and stir to coat the pieces. Serve with rice, sesame seeds, chopped green onions and some steamed broccoli. Enjoy!

Notes

Nutrition information is for the tofu only, and does not include rice or broccoli.
To pan fry tofu instead of bake: After mixing the tofu with the sesame oil/soy sauce/cornstarch, in a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu in a single layer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then carefully flip the pieces with a spatula and cook for a few more minutes on each side, until the tofu are golden and crispy on all sides. Then simply add the sauce ingredients to the pan, then the cornstarch slurry and sesame oil.
How to store leftovers: Store in the refrigerator in a covered container for 3-4 days. Re-warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. You could also meal prep the dish for the week by dividing it into containers with a serving of rice and steamed broccoli.

Nutrition

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Chinese

Author: Nora Taylor

Did you make this recipe?

Mention @nora_cooks_vegan_ or tag #noracooks!