Sesame Tofu
Tofu seems to be one of those divisive foods that people either love or hate, but I’m firmly in the love camp—and this easy method of preparing it has made my kids fans, too. It’s packed with vegetarian protein, super inexpensive, and a perfect texture for babies and toddlers to easily eat. Oh and: You can flavor it in so many ways! Knowing how to cook tofu can seem daunting if you’re new to it, but this easy way of cooking Sesame Tofu is both easy and delicious. This method of making pan-fried tofu is how my family loves it best (well in addition to Tofu Nuggets!) and I make it a few times a month. The toasted sesame oil adds really nice flavor to this recipe, but you can also use olive oil or butter for a more neutral flavor if you prefer. (You may also like my Salmon Nuggets and Fish Nuggets.)
Ingredients You Need
To make this simple family dinner, you’ll just need tofu and toasted sesame oil. You can also use sesame seeds to garnish, if you want. (And whatever else you plan to serve it with for dinner.) Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Extra-firm tofu works best in this recipe, or at least it’s the texture that I prefer. It holds its shape nicely and doesn’t break much when cooking. “Firm” and “soft” tofu will be less firm than “extra-firm” and may break up a bit as you turn each piece over. You can also try using “super firm” tofu, which is much firmer (and has more protein since more water has been removed.) It’s denser and therefore has a more solid texture. Toasted sesame oil: This ingredient adds the sesame flavor.
Step-by-Step Process
Here’s a look at the easy process involved in making this sesame tofu recipe so you know what to expect. Scroll down to the end of the post for the full information, including the amounts and the timing.
Serving Suggestions
We like this sesame tofu with rice and sauteed veggies in a Vegetable Stir Fry, a Noodle Stir Fry, or in my Thai Green Curry recipe. You can saute any mix of chopped veggies like carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, in a little additional toasted sesame oil. We also make it regularly with olive oil or butter to serve with Spinach Pesto with pasta. TIP: If you want to add extra flavor to a rice bowl with Sesame Tofu, you can drizzle with a little soy sauce and honey for an easy riff on teriyaki sauce like in my teriyaki shrimp.
Best Tips for Success
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Warm to serve. To do this in a cast-iron or stainless steel-skillet, rather than in a nonstick pan, use 2 tablespoons oil to ensure it doesn’t stick. Let the oil warm for at least 30 seconds in the pan before adding the tofu to ensure it doesn’t stick. Drain the tofu on towels stacked with plates for the best texture. Use olive oil or butter for a more neutral flavor. Use “extra-firm” tofu for the best texture. Add a little reduced-sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari), Peanut Sauce, or teriyaki sauce for additional flavor.
I’d love to hear what you think of this recipe if you try it, so please comment below with feedback!
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This post was first published January 2020.
