For an easy weeknight dinner, look no further than this crispy baked sesame tofu! It’s so easy to make, requires only 10 minutes of prep time, and is completely vegan and gluten-free. This recipe yields crispy, flavorful tofu that’s perfect when paired with rice and steamed vegetables.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• Tofu:
  • 1 block (14 ounces) extra firm tofu
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
• Sauce:
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (slurry)

Directions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drain the tofu and gently pat it dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, toss the tofu cubes with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce until evenly coated. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over the tofu and gently toss to coat. Add 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs and toss again until all pieces are well-coated.
2. Bake the Tofu: Arrange the coated tofu cubes on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the tofu is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even baking.
3. Prepare the Sauce: While the tofu is baking, heat 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and sriracha or chili paste if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, approximately 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Combine and Serve: Once the tofu is done baking, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the tofu and gently toss to ensure each piece is well-coated. Serve immediately over rice and steamed vegetables, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 200
• Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 12g

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Sesame Tofu

Crispy baked sesame tofu is a fantastic dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a plant-based meal while still getting plenty of protein and bold flavors. Unlike deep-fried tofu, which can be heavy and greasy, this baked version offers the same satisfying crunch without the excess oil, making it a healthier option. This recipe is also incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether you are new to tofu or a seasoned pro, this dish will impress your taste buds and become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. The sesame-infused sauce brings a rich umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the tofu.

Health Benefits of Tofu

Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans. It is also packed with essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and magnesium. Additionally, tofu contains isoflavones, which have been linked to various health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and even potential protection against certain types of cancer. For those looking to maintain or lose weight, tofu is a fantastic choice as it is low in calories while still being highly satiating. Since it absorbs flavors well, it can be adapted to a wide range of dishes and cooking styles.

Why Baking Tofu is Better Than Frying

Traditional fried tofu is delicious, but it often comes with a high oil content, making it less healthy than its baked counterpart. Baking tofu provides the same crispy texture but with fewer calories and less fat. Additionally, baking allows for a hands-off approach, meaning you can prepare other components of your meal while the tofu is cooking in the oven. Another advantage of baking is that it creates a more consistent texture. Unlike frying, which can sometimes lead to uneven cooking, baking ensures that each piece of tofu is evenly crispy. This method also prevents the tofu from becoming overly greasy, preserving its light and airy texture.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Sesame Tofu

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways you can enjoy your crispy baked sesame tofu:

• With Rice and Vegetables: Serve the tofu over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice with a side of stir-fried or roasted vegetables.
• In a Salad: Add the tofu to a fresh green salad with cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and a sesame dressing for a protein-packed meal.
• As a Wrap or Sandwich Filling: Use the tofu in a wrap or sandwich along with fresh veggies and a flavorful sauce for a satisfying lunch.
• Over Noodles: Toss the tofu with cooked noodles and extra sesame sauce for a delicious noodle bowl.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the tofu as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, such as spicy mayo or peanut sauce, for a tasty snack.

Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Tofu

If you want to achieve the perfect crispy texture, here are some tips to follow:

• Press the Tofu Properly: Removing excess moisture from the tofu is key to getting a crispy texture. Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Use Cornstarch: Coating the tofu in cornstarch before baking helps create a light, crispy coating that mimics the texture of fried tofu.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure to spread the tofu pieces out on the baking sheet to allow even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
• Flip Halfway Through: Turning the tofu pieces halfway through baking ensures that all sides get evenly crispy.
• Bake at a High Temperature: Cooking the tofu at 400°F (200°C) allows it to crisp up nicely without becoming too dry.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Crispy baked sesame tofu is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them properly to maintain their texture and flavor.

• Storage: Place the cooled tofu in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To bring back its crispiness, reheat the tofu in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tofu soft and chewy instead of crispy.

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

To make this meal even more satisfying, consider pairing it with other complementary dishes. Here are some great pairings:

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots pair beautifully with this dish.
• Miso Soup: A warm and comforting bowl of miso soup makes a great addition to this meal.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy tofu.
• Spring Rolls: Serve with fresh or fried spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired feast.

Why This Recipe is Great for Meal Prep

If you like planning your meals ahead of time, this crispy baked sesame tofu is a fantastic option. Since it holds up well in the refrigerator and reheats nicely, you can make a batch at the beginning of the week and use it in different meals throughout the week. To make meal prep even easier, you can also prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the tofu and toss it with the sauce for a quick and flavorful meal.

Conclusion

Crispy baked sesame tofu is a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious dinner, a protein-packed lunch, or an easy meal prep option, this recipe has you covered. By baking the tofu instead of frying it, you can enjoy a satisfying crunch without the added oil, making it a guilt-free option for any occasion.