Sesame Tofu

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more affordable while providing a neutral flavor.

tofu

🥗Healthier: tempeh

💰Cheaper: seitan

Tempeh is higher in protein, while seitan is often less expensive.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: tamari

💰Cheaper: coconut aminos

Coconut aminos is a soy-free alternative and can be lower in sodium.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasonings

Using water with seasonings can reduce costs while still adding flavor.

Pat tofu dry with paper towels. Cut into 1/2” (1 cm) pieces and transfer into a large ziploc bag. Add the soy sauce. Gently flip the bag a few times to coat tofu with the liquid. Marinate for 10 to 15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

Mix the sauce ingredients together in a medium-sized bowl.

Once the tofu is marinated, open the bag just a little bit without letting the tofu fall out. Drain and discard all the liquid. Add the cornstarch, a tablespoon at a time, then gently toss the bag to coat the tofu. It is OK if the tofu doesn’t get coated evenly.

Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet until hot. Add the tofu pieces in a single layer.

Cook over medium heat until the bottom turns golden, 4 to 5 minutes or so. If using a nonstick skillet, use a pair of chopsticks to separate the tofu as much as you can during this time. Flip to brown the other side, another 3 to 4 minutes until turning golden. Transfer the tofu to a big plate and turn to low heat.

You should still have 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil in the pan. Wipe off any excess oil beyond that with paper towels if needed. Add green onion and garlic, then turn to medium heat. Cook and stir a few times until it releases fragrance.

Stir the sauce again to dissolve the cornstarch completely. Pour it into the pan. Stir and cook until it thickens.

Add back the cooked tofu. Stir to coat everything with the sauce, 30 seconds or so. Transfer everything to a big plate. Garnish with green onions. Serve hot as a main dish.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary