Crispy Sesame Tofu
There’s something truly magical about Crispy Sesame Tofu—golden, crunchy tofu coated in a sticky, savory sesame sauce that’s simply irresistible. As tofu lovers, we’re always looking for quick, easy, and delicious ways to enjoy this versatile ingredient, and this dish has become a staple in our kitchen. The combination of crispy pan-fried tofu and an umami-packed, plant-based sesame sauce makes every bite deeply satisfying.
Whether served over rice, tossed with noodles, or paired with steamed vegetables, this recipe is better than takeout and comes together effortlessly. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something bold and flavorful, this Crispy Sesame Tofu is proof that homemade plant-based meals can be just as indulgent and delicious as your favorite restaurant dishes!
Table of Contents
- About This Recipe
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Key Ingredients
- How To Make Crispy Sesame Tofu
- Have It Your Way
- Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Health Benefits
- Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Tofu Press
About This Recipe
This Crispy Sesame Tofu is inspired by classic takeout flavors but made entirely at home with minimal ingredients. The tofu is coated in cornstarch for a light, crispy texture, then pan-fried to golden perfection. The sauce is a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and nutty, thanks to soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and maple syrup or brown Sugar. It’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting yet nutritious dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Flavorful – The tofu is perfectly golden and crunchy, coated in a rich, sticky sesame sauce.
- Easy & Quick – This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Plant-Based Protein – Tofu is a great source of protein, keeping you full and energized.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
- Better Than Takeout – A homemade version of a takeout favorite, without any additives or excessive oil.
Key Ingredients
For the Crispy Tofu:
- Extra firm tofu – Pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes for the best texture.
- Cornstarch – Creates a light, crispy coating when fried.
- Soy sauce – Adds umami depth to the tofu.
- Sesame oil – Enhances the nutty aroma.
- Garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlicky flavor.
- White pepper – Provides mild heat and earthiness.
For the Sesame Sauce:
- Soy sauce – The base of the sauce, adding savory umami flavor.
- Rice vinegar – Balances the sauce with acidity.
- Hoisin sauce – Gives a slightly sweet and tangy depth.
- Maple syrup (or brown sugar) – Provides natural sweetness.
- Toasted sesame oil – Intensifies the sesame flavor.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for a glossy coating.
- Water (for slurry) – Helps dissolve the cornstarch.
- Garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with bold flavor.
- Grated ginger – Adds warmth and aromatic spice.
- Chili flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat.
To Garnish:
- Toasted sesame seeds – Adds a nutty crunch.
- Scallions – Brings freshness and a mild oniony bite.
How To Make Crispy Sesame Tofu
Prepare the Tofu:
- Press the tofu for 20-30 minutes (ideally overnight) to remove excess moisture.
- Break the tofu apart into bite sized pieces by hand to create an interesting texture that will crisp up nicely.
- Toss the tofu with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and white pepper. Let it marinate for 5–10 minutes.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and gently toss until evenly coated.
Air-Fry the Tofu:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350-400°F (190°C).
- Transfer the tofu to a parchment lined air fryer tray or an air fryer bucket.
- Air-fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Sesame Tofu:
- In a pan over medium low heat, add a tablespoon of oil and allow it to heat up. Sauté the garlic, ginger, and chili flakes for about 30-60 seconds or until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
- Mix the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and add it to the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens (about 1–2 minutes).
- Add the crispy air fried tofu to the pan and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and scallions.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Have It Your Way
- Make it spicier: Add sriracha or extra chili flakes for more heat.
- Soy-free option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Air-fryer method: Skip pan-frying and cook the tofu in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Add vegetables: Stir-fry bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrients.
- Serve it differently: Pair with rice, quinoa, or lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Protein: ~12g
- Fat: ~12g
- Saturated Fat: ~2g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~5g
- Sodium: ~400mg
Health Benefits
- Rich in Plant-Based Protein – Tofu provides a high-protein, low-fat alternative to meat.
- Heart-Healthy Fats – Sesame oil and seeds contain healthy fats that support heart health.
- Gut-Friendly – Fermented soy products like tofu can promote better digestion.
- Antioxidant-Rich – Garlic, ginger, and sesame seeds are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
Crispy Sesame Tofu
Ingredients
For the Crispy Tofu:
- 14 oz Extra Firm Tofu pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp Corn Starch
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp White Pepper
For the Sesame Sauce:
- 4 tbsp Soy Sauce or tamari
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp Vegetarian Hoisin Sauce
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar or maple syrup
- 2 tsp Sesame Oil toasted
- 3 tsp cornstarch for slurry
- 2 clove Garlic minced
- 1 tsp Ginger grated
- 1 tsp Red Chili Flakes optional, for heat
- 4 tbsp Water
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds toasted
- 2 Scallions thinly sliced
Equipment
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu:
- Press the tofu for 20-30 minutes (ideally overnight) to remove excess moisture.
- Break the tofu apart into bite sized pieces by hand to create an interesting texture that will crisp up nicely.
- Toss the tofu with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and white pepper. Let it marinate for 5–10 minutes.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and gently toss until evenly coated.
Air-Fry the Tofu:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350-400°F (190°C).
- Transfer the tofu to a parchment lined air fryer tray or an air fryer bucket.
- Air-fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Sesame Tofu:
- In a pan over medium low heat, add a tablespoon of oil and allow it to heat up. Sauté the garlic, ginger, and chili flakes for about 30-60 seconds or until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
- Mix the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and add it to the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens (about 1–2 minutes).
- Add the crispy air fried tofu to the pan and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and scallions.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Press the tofu properly to remove excess moisture—this helps achieve the best crispy texture.
- Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking.
- For extra crispiness, double fry the tofu by pan-frying, letting it cool, and frying it again.
- Adjust sauce consistency by adding a little water if it thickens too much.
Nutrition
Tofu Press
Using a good Tofu Press is crucial for enhancing the texture and flavor of tofu in your culinary creations. Pressing tofu removes excess water, allowing it to absorb marinades and spices more effectively, resulting in a richer and more robust taste. This process also improves the tofu’s texture, making it firmer and more suitable for grilling, frying, or baking. A well-pressed tofu holds its shape better and achieves a desirable crispy exterior while remaining tender on the inside. Investing in a quality tofu press simplifies this process, saving time and ensuring consistent results, ultimately elevating your dishes to a new level of deliciousness. Here is our favorite Tofu Press. It easily And quickly remove water from Tofu to Improve the flavor and give Perfect Texture every time.
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