Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir Fry Flavorful and Easy Meal

Are you ready to enjoy a meal that’s both tasty and simple? My Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir Fry is the perfect choice for quick weeknight dinners or impressing friends. You’ll learn how to create crispy tofu paired with vibrant veggies, all coated in a delicious sesame sauce. With easy ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time—let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu

– 3 tablespoons cornstarch

– 3 tablespoons sesame oil

– 1 bell pepper (any color)

– 1 cup broccoli florets

– 1 carrot

– 2 green onions

– 2 cloves garlic

– 1 inch ginger

Sauce Ingredients

– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)

– 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

– Salt and pepper to taste

Gathering the right ingredients is key to this dish. Start with firm tofu. It holds its shape well and gives you that crispy texture. You will need cornstarch for coating. It creates a crunchy crust when fried. Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor. Choose a bell pepper of any color for a sweet crunch. Broccoli florets add a fresh bite, while a carrot gives a sweet touch. Green onions provide a mild onion flavor. Garlic and ginger add warmth and depth to the dish.

For the sauce, soy sauce or tamari brings saltiness and umami. Honey or maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness. Rice vinegar gives a nice tang. Finish with sesame seeds, salt, and pepper for perfect balance. Each ingredient plays an important role in making this meal flavorful and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Tofu

First, press the tofu to get rid of extra moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean towel. Put a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes. After pressing, cut the tofu into even cubes. Toss the cubes in a bowl with cornstarch. This coating will help the tofu become crispy when cooked.

Cooking the Tofu

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated tofu cubes. Fry the tofu for about 6-8 minutes. Turn the cubes occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of sesame oil. Now, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and carrot. Stir-fry these vegetables for about 4-5 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until they smell great.

Combining Ingredients

While the veggies cook, make the sauce. Whisk together soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and rice vinegar in a small bowl. After that, return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the tofu and vegetables. Stir everything well to coat it evenly. Cook for an extra 2-3 minutes to let the sauce thicken a bit. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Extra Crispiness

To make your tofu extra crispy, start by pressing it well. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel. Place a heavy object on top for 15 minutes. This removes excess moisture. Next, cut the tofu into cubes and coat them with cornstarch. Toss them gently in a bowl until they are evenly covered. This step brings out that perfect crunch when you fry the tofu.

Enhancing Flavor

For more flavor, you can adjust the seasoning. Add a bit more soy sauce or a dash of chili flakes for heat. You can also swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan option. Feel free to try different veggies too. Snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms can add unique tastes to your dish. Mix and match based on what you love.

Presentation Ideas

When serving, think about how to make it look nice. Garnish your dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This adds a pop of color and texture. You can serve it in a large bowl or on individual plates. For a fresh touch, add a lime wedge on the side. It gives a zesty flavor that brightens the meal.

Variations

Vegetable Substitutions

You can swap out the bell pepper for other veggies. Think about using snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini. These add unique flavors and textures. Seasonal veggies also work great! In summer, try fresh corn or green beans. In fall, add squash or kale for a cozy twist.

Protein Alternatives

If you want to change the protein, tempeh is a great choice. It has a nutty flavor and absorbs sauces well. You can also use seitan for a chewy texture. For a complete meal, serve the stir fry over quinoa. Quinoa is packed with protein and makes it filling.

Sauce Alternatives

You can make this dish vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey. Tamari is a gluten-free substitute for soy sauce. Want something spicy? Add chili paste or sriracha for a kick. For a sweeter taste, increase the honey or maple syrup for a delightful twist.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storage

To keep your crispy sesame tofu stir fry fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This helps keep the tofu crispy and the veggies crunchy. If you want to freeze it, let the stir fry cool first. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Press out as much air as you can before sealing.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, the stir fry lasts for about 3 to 4 days. Look for changes in color or smell. If the tofu looks off or smells sour, it’s time to toss it. Fresh veggies will also lose their bright colors and crispness.

Reheating Tips

To reheat without losing texture, use a stovetop. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of water. This helps steam the veggies and keeps the tofu crisp. Stir gently until warmed through. If you use a microwave, place the stir fry in a bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This method helps prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Here are some best practices for meal prep:

– Prepare the tofu: Press and cube the tofu. Coat it in cornstarch.

– Store vegetables: Chop the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Keep them in a container.

– Make the sauce: Mix the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Store in the fridge.

– Cooking: When ready to eat, fry the tofu and stir-fry the veggies. Add the sauce at the end for fresh flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly. Here’s the ingredient breakdown:

– Tofu: Made from soybeans, it’s a great protein source.

– Cornstarch: A plant-based thickener for the crispy texture.

– Sesame oil: Adds rich flavor and is plant-based.

– Soy sauce: Usually vegan, but check for brands without animal products.

– Honey or maple syrup: Use maple syrup to keep it fully vegan.

– Vegetables: All included veggies are plant-based and healthy.

What can I serve with Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir Fry?

This stir fry pairs well with many sides. Here are some suggestions:

– Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice are great options.

– Noodles: Try soba or rice noodles for a different texture.

– Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch.

– Steamed veggies: Broccoli or snap peas complement the dish well.

– Spring rolls: These are fun appetizers that match the flavors.

This blog post covered how to create a delicious Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir Fry. We discussed the main ingredients like tofu, fresh veggies, and savory sauces. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking the dish. We shared tips for extra crispiness and flavor, alongside options for variations.

In conclusion, cooking this stir fry is easy and fun. It is perfect for busy days or meal prep. With these ideas, you can enjoy a tasty and nutritious dish anytime. Happy cooking!

Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir Fry

Discover the deliciousness of crispy sesame tofu stir fry! This quick recipe combines perfectly fried tofu with vibrant veggies, all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it's ready in just 30 minutes and packed with nutrients. Impress your family and friends with this satisfying dish that’s both healthy and easy to make. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your cooking game!

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Ingredients

  

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed

3 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons sesame oil

1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)

1 cup broccoli florets

1 carrot, thinly sliced

2 green onions, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 inch ginger, grated

3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15 minutes.

Once pressed, cut the tofu into evenly sized cubes and toss them gently in a bowl with cornstarch until well coated. This will help achieve a crispy texture.

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated tofu cubes and fry for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. Then, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, and carrot. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the vegetables and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and rice vinegar in a small bowl.

Return the crispy tofu to the skillet with the vegetables and pour the sauce over the mixture. Stir well to combine all elements, ensuring the sauce coats everything evenly.

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Finally, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the stir fry in a large bowl or individual plates, garnished with extra green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color. Add a slice of lime on the side for a fresh zest!