Garlic Sesame Tofu

For an easy weeknight dinner, look no further than this garlic sesame tofu! This dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, garlic sesame tofu is completely vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Its unique combination of garlic and sesame elevates the humble tofu into a flavorful main course that can be served over rice or enjoyed on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and sesame oil brings out the best in tofu, making every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it over rice, with vegetables, or as a protein-packed snack; the options are endless.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free: A great option for those following plant-based diets or looking for gluten-free meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this dish provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

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Tools and Preparation

To make garlic sesame tofu effectively, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking simpler and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Large bowl
• Small sauté pan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Ensures even cooking and crispiness when baking the tofu.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup after cooking.
• Large bowl: Provides enough space to toss the tofu with sauces and coatings evenly.
• Whisk: Helps combine sauces smoothly without clumps.

Ingredients

For this garlic sesame tofu recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon low sodium tamari or soy sauce
• 1 16 ounce block extra firm tofu
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• 3 tablespoons gluten free breadcrumbs (can sub for regular)
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon oil (I used avocado oil)
• 1/3 cup low sodium tamari or soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2-3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• 4 tablespoons water (divided)

How to Make Garlic Sesame Tofu

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

Drain the excess liquid from the tofu. Use a towel to dry it off thoroughly. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and add them to a large bowl.

Step 3: Add Soy Sauce

Toss the cubed tofu with 1 tablespoon of low sodium tamari or soy sauce until well coated.

Step 4: Coat with Cornstarch and Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu cubes. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Then add breadcrumbs and toss again.

Step 5: Bake the Tofu

Spread the coated tofu cubes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

During the final 10 minutes of baking, mince the garlic. In a small sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 7: Add Sauce Ingredients

Add in your remaining soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of water, and toasted sesame oil into the pan. Stir well to combine.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with another 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Add this mixture to your sauté pan. Heat over low heat for about 3-5 minutes until bubbling and thickened.

Step 9: Combine Tofu and Sauce

Once your tofu is done baking, toss it in the prepared sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve over rice with steamed broccoli or enjoy as is!

Enjoy your delicious homemade garlic sesame tofu!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Tofu

Garlic sesame tofu is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a perfect addition to many meals.

Over Rice

• Serve the garlic sesame tofu over fluffy jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle extra sauce on top for added flavor.

In a Salad

• Toss the tofu with mixed greens, cucumbers, and carrots for a refreshing salad.
• Use a light vinaigrette to complement the savory flavors of the tofu.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair the garlic sesame tofu with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy.
• This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

In Tacos

• Use tortillas to create delicious tacos filled with garlic sesame tofu.
• Top with avocado slices and cilantro for an extra kick.

As a Snack

• Enjoy leftover garlic sesame tofu cold as a protein-packed snack.
• Add some sesame seeds on top for crunch.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Tofu

To achieve the best garlic sesame tofu, follow these simple tips. They will help enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use Extra Firm Tofu: Choose extra firm tofu for a better texture that holds up well during baking.
• Dry Thoroughly: Make sure to drain and pat dry the tofu well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• Even Coating: Coat the tofu evenly with cornstarch and sauces to ensure every piece is flavorful.
• Bake Until Golden: Bake until the tofu is golden brown for added crunch and depth of flavor.
• Adjust Sauce Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients according to your taste preferences; add more honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with garnishes like chopped green onions or chili flakes for added flair.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Tofu

Pairing garlic sesame tofu with complementary side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing, jasmine rice absorbs flavors beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative packed with protein, toss quinoa with veggies for added texture.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances well with the sweet sauce of garlic sesame tofu.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fry brings out the natural sweetness of bok choy; season lightly with soy sauce.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm tofu dish.
6. Miso Soup: A light miso soup complements the savory notes of garlic sesame tofu nicely while keeping it comforting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making garlic sesame tofu can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the pressing step: Not pressing the tofu can lead to a watery texture. Always drain and press your tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.
• Neglecting to season properly: Under-seasoning the tofu can result in dull flavors. Make sure to thoroughly coat the tofu with soy sauce and other seasonings.
• Overcrowding the baking tray: Placing too much tofu on a single tray can cause steaming instead of baking. Give each cube enough space for even crispiness.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking the tofu for too short a time may leave it soft. Bake until golden brown for the best texture.
• Not adjusting for personal taste: Following the recipe exactly may not suit everyone’s palate. Feel free to customize ingredients like sweeteners or spices according to your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover garlic sesame tofu in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Tofu

• Place cooled tofu in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months, although some texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Tofu

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or oil until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about garlic sesame tofu that might help you out.

How do I make garlic sesame tofu crispy?

To achieve a crispy texture, ensure you coat the tofu with cornstarch and bake it at high heat until golden brown.

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low sodium?

Yes, you can substitute regular soy sauce, but be mindful that it will increase the sodium content of your dish.

What should I serve with garlic sesame tofu?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and vegetables like broccoli for a wholesome meal.

Is garlic sesame tofu gluten-free?

Yes, when using gluten-free tamari or soy sauce, this recipe is completely gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Garlic sesame tofu is an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying dinner. Its adaptability allows you to customize flavors and pairings easily. Whether served over rice or enjoyed as is, this dish will surely delight your taste buds. Give it a try, and feel free to experiment with various sauces or veggies!