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+ servings
Sesame ginger tofu on a plate.

Perfect Sesame Tofu

Justine Drosdovech
This sesame tofu is crispy, chewy, and saucy! It’s baked until golden-brown perfection and tossed in a sticky marinade featuring sesame oil, ginger, and lime.
5 from 6 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian, Gluten-Free, Vegan
Servings 3 servings
Calories 437 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Frying pan
  • Tofu pres

Ingredients
 

Tofu

  • 14 ounces (1 block) tofu, extra-firm or firm
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons liquid aminos
  • 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons ginger, finely minced or grated
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • ½ tablespoon Sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon tahini

For serving

  • Steamed rice
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Drain the tofu, then wrap it in a clean tea towel and press it between two hard surfaces (like a cutting board with a cast-iron skillet on top) for 15-20 minutes.
  • Whisk the sesame oil, liquid aminos, vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, lime juice, Sriracha, and tahini in a container or freezer bag large enough to fit the tofu.
  • Once the tofu is pressed, cube it into 1-inch pieces. Toss it in the marinade with a cover on, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
  • Pick up each tofu cube with a fork to drain it, then place it in a separate container or freezer bag. Add in the corn starch and shake to coat each cube.
  • Transfer the tofu to the prepare pan and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway. The cubes should look golden-brown and feel crispy.
  • While the tofu is baking, heat a frying pan over medium and add in the leftover marinade. Reduce sauce until it thickens slightly, about 5-10 minutes.
  • Add the baked cubes to the pan and toss to coat them in the sesame ginger glaze. Serve your sesame tofu with rice, chopped green onions, and toasted sesame seeds. Happy eating!

Notes

  • Press well: Well-pressed tofu is key to achieving the perfect texture. Either use a tofu press or a cast-iron pan for at least 15 minutes to remove most of the water.
  • Cornstarch coating: Don’t skip the cornstarch! It's crucial for a crispy exterior.
  • Rotate: Turn the tofu pieces halfway during baking to ensure an even crispiness.
  • Quality tofu: Opt for organic, non-GMO tofu for the best flavor and texture.
  • Watch the marinade: While you’re reducing the marinade, don’t step too far away to make sure it doesn’t burn.
  • Nutritional information is a rough estimate and should not be taken as health advice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 437kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 699mg | Potassium: 91mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Calcium: 280mg | Iron: 1.76mg
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