Crispy Sesame Tofu features golden-brown tofu bites coated in a sticky, sweet-savory sesame sauce. Paired with scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and served over rice or noodles, it’s a satisfying takeout-style vegan dish that’s easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crispy Sesame Tofu is a go-to recipe for when you’re craving bold flavor without sacrificing nutrition or simplicity. The tofu is pan-fried to a perfect crisp and coated in a rich, glossy sauce that’s both sweet and savory with just the right hint of spice. It’s high in plant-based protein, budget-friendly, and ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to tofu or a seasoned fan, this recipe is a must-try for any vegan kitchen.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the tofu:
- extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- cornstarch
- garlic powder
- salt
- neutral oil (for frying)
For the sesame sauce:
- soy sauce
- maple syrup or brown sugar
- rice vinegar
- sesame oil
- sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
- cornstarch mixed with water (for slurry)
For garnish and serving:
- green onions, sliced
- toasted sesame seeds
- steamed rice or noodles
directions
- Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
- In a bowl, toss the tofu with cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt until fully coated.
- Heat neutral oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Fry the tofu for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup or sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and optional sriracha.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Return the tofu to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 2 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: 360 kcal
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Spicy Version: Add extra sriracha or chili flakes for a bolder heat.
- Air Fryer Method: Air-fry the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a complete meal.
- Noodle Bowl: Swap rice for soba or rice noodles for a twist on the classic serving style.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or microwave for convenience, though the tofu will be softer. For best results, store the tofu and sauce separately and combine just before reheating.
FAQs
Can I bake the tofu instead of frying it?
Yes, bake the tofu at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
What type of tofu works best for this recipe?
Extra firm tofu is ideal because it holds its shape and crisps up well during cooking.
How do I press tofu without a tofu press?
Wrap the tofu block in paper towels or a clean cloth and place a heavy object on top, like a skillet or books, for 15–30 minutes.
Is the sauce very spicy?
The spiciness is adjustable. Leave out the sriracha or chili sauce for a milder version.
Can I use another sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Yes, brown sugar, agave syrup, or even coconut sugar are good substitutes.
What kind of oil should I use for frying?
A neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil works best for frying tofu.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure not to overcrowd the pan when frying the tofu, and double the sauce ingredients accordingly.
Does this work with other proteins?
Yes, tempeh or soy curls can be used in place of tofu for variety.
Can I freeze cooked tofu?
Cooked tofu can be frozen, but the texture may become more sponge-like after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What should I serve this with?
Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles all pair well. You can also add stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Crispy Sesame Tofu is a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make vegan dish that delivers takeout-style results at home. With its golden texture and rich sesame sauce, it’s sure to become a regular favorite for quick weeknight dinners or weekend indulgences. Whether served over rice or noodles, it’s a delicious way to enjoy plant-based comfort food.
PrintCrispy Sesame Tofu
Crispy golden tofu bites coated in a sticky, sweet-savory sesame sauce, tossed with scallions and toasted seeds for the perfect takeout-style vegan bowl.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz) extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1–2 tbsp neutral oil for frying
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
- 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Steamed rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
- Press tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes.
- In a bowl, toss tofu cubes with cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
- Heat neutral oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Fry tofu for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha if using.
- Pour the sauce into a pan over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return tofu to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce thoroughly.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, air-fry or bake the tofu instead of pan-frying.
- Adjust sweetness and heat in the sauce to your taste preference.
- Great with stir-fried veggies or inside lettuce wraps.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 0mg