This sesame crusted tofu is a great side dish with crunch on the outside, packed with flavor and soft inside. You can pair with rice or salad. Or enjoy just plain as a light meal along with some pickled cucumber on the side.
Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress.
Tofu is a nutritious, versatile, and environmentally friendly food that offers numerous health benefits. Whether you're looking to increase your protein intake, improve heart health, support bone strength, or explore new culinary options, tofu can be a valuable addition to your diet.
Why you should try this sesame crusted tofu
Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. It's also rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium. Sesame seeds add a boost of healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals like zinc and copper. This dish is not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to a balanced diet.
Ingredients you need for sesame crusted tofu
Tofu - I use firm or extra firm tofu. Before I start cooking, I drain all excess water by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel or by using a tofu press.
Sesame seed - You can use a mix of black and white sesame seeds, like I did here, or use only one type.
For the marinade - For the marinade I used soy sauce, mirin for mild sweetness, sesame oil, tiny amount of salt. If you don't have mirin, you can use sugar or honey. It helps to balance the savory taste of soy sauce.
Corn flour - Corn flour adds to the crunchy texture of the tofu. But you can skip that if you want and just coat it with sesame seeds.
Oil to fry the tofu. I didn't try air fry with this recipe, but I am sure it will work perfectly fine. Here is my air-fried tofu recipe.
To get extra crispy Tofu, ensure the tofu is well-drained and pressed to remove as much moisture as possible. Also, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy tofu.
Steps to prepare
1- For a crispy texture, I like to press the Tofu to get the excess water out of it. You can use a tofu press or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel for 30 minutes.
2- Slice and tofu and score. Scoring the tofu is not a requirement, but I like to do it as it helps to get the marinade inside there by making it very flavorful.
3- Prepare the marinade by adding all the ingredients mention in the recipe card.
4- Let the tofu slices soak in the marinade for 30 minutes.
5- When ready to prepare, coat the marinated tofu slices in corn flour.
6- Then press the sesame seeds on the tofu slices.
7- In a heavy bottom pan, heat a little oil and layer the tofu slices. Let it sizzle for a few minutes.
8 - Flip and let it fry for a few minutes on the other side.
Sesame crusted tofu is best served warm. Garnish with some chopped green onion and serve with rice and pickled veggies.
FAQs
It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce.
Yes, you can bake it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sesame-crusted tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
Sesame-crusted tofu pairs well with a variety of dishes. Try serving it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or as a topping for salads.
Store any leftover sesame-crusted tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain crispiness.
Serving ideas
Pair it with Chili Oil noodles or with burnt fried rice
It will work as a great topping on this roasted beetroot & carrot salad
Sesame-crusted tofu is a delightful dish that brings together the best of taste and nutrition. Its crispy exterior and tender interior make it a versatile addition to any meal.
Whether you're a tofu enthusiast or a newcomer, sesame-crusted tofu is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Sesame Crusted Tofu
Ingredients
- 1 Block firm tofu
- ¼ cup Corn flour
- ¼ cup Sesame seeds (I used a mix of black and white sesame seeds)
- 3 tablespoon Oil
Marinade
- ¼ cup Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Mirin
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ tablespoon Honey
Instructions
- Press the tofu block with kitchen towel or tofu press for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Slice the tofu into the shapes as per your liking and then score (shallow cuts) on the tofu sliced. This will help the marinade to goo deep and flavor the tofu.
- Pour all the ingredients mentioned for marinade in a container big enough to hold all the tofu slices and whisk. Then add the Tofu slices and leave it aside for 15 minutes.
- When you are ready to prepare, in a plate add the corn flour and in a different plate ass the sesame seeds.
- Take the tofu slices and coat it with corn flour first and then with the sesame seeds.
- Heat a heavy bottom skillet and pour the oil. Once the oil heats up, layer the tofu slices and fry for 5 minutes on each side.
