Garlic Sesame Tofu

For an easy weeknight dinner, look no further than this garlic sesame tofu! It’s quick to prepare and offers a delightful blend of flavors. This dish is not only vegan and gluten-free but also versatile enough for various occasions, from casual weeknight meals to more formal gatherings. The standout quality of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the rich, savory taste that can satisfy both tofu lovers and skeptics alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil gives this dish an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or enjoy it plain. It pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with nutrient-rich tofu and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make garlic sesame tofu successfully, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Essential for even cooking and crisping up the tofu in the oven.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup after baking.
• Large bowl: Perfect for mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Small sauté pan: Ideal for making the sauce while the tofu bakes.

Ingredients

For garlic sesame tofu, gather these simple 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 to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

1. Drain the excess liquid from the tofu.
2. Pat it dry with a towel to remove moisture.
3. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and add them to a large bowl.
4. Toss with low sodium tamari or soy sauce until evenly coated.

Step 3: Coat the Tofu

1. Sprinkle corn starch over the tofu cubes.
2. Add gluten-free breadcrumbs and toss until every piece is well coated.

Step 4: Bake the Tofu

1. Line your baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Spread out the coated tofu cubes on the tray.
3. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through if desired.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

During the last ten minutes of baking:
1. Mince the garlic finely.
2. Heat oil in a small sauté pan over medium heat.
3. Sauté minced garlic for about 2–3 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 6: Make It Saucy

1. Add low sodium tamari or soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil to the pan with garlic.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together corn starch and two tablespoons of water until smooth.
3. Pour this mixture into your sauté pan with other ingredients.

Step 7: Thicken Your Sauce

Cook over low heat for about 3–5 minutes until it bubbles and thickens slightly.

Step 8: Combine Tofu with Sauce

Once your tofu is done baking:
1. Toss it gently in the prepared sauce until all pieces are well coated.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your delicious garlic sesame tofu over rice, alongside steamed broccoli, or enjoy it as is!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Tofu

Garlic sesame tofu is a versatile dish that suits various meal settings. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a delightful side, there are many ways to serve it for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

Over Rice

• Serve garlic sesame tofu over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. Jasmine or brown rice pairs well with the rich flavors.

With Steamed Veggies

• Complement the dish with steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. This adds color and nutrients, balancing the meal beautifully.

In a Wrap

• Take your garlic sesame tofu on the go by wrapping it in a tortilla with fresh spinach and avocado. This makes for a quick and delicious lunch option.

As Part of a Buddha Bowl

• Create a nourishing buddha bowl by adding the tofu alongside quinoa, kale, and avocado. Drizzle with extra sauce for added flavor.

Tossed in a Salad

• Add cubed garlic sesame tofu to your favorite salad for protein. It’s delicious with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a sesame dressing.

With Noodles

• Pair the tofu with rice noodles or soba noodles for an Asian-inspired dish. Toss everything together for an easy one-bowl meal.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Tofu

Perfecting garlic sesame tofu involves attention to detail during preparation and cooking. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Press the Tofu – Before cooking, press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a firmer texture and better flavor absorption.

• Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the taste significantly compared to pre-minced options. It offers more robust flavors in your sauce.

• Preheat Your Oven – Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking the tofu. This step helps achieve that perfect golden-brown color and crispiness.

• Coat Evenly – Make sure each piece of tofu is evenly coated in cornstarch and sauce for consistent flavor throughout each bite.

• Monitor Baking Time – Keep an eye on the tofu as it bakes; every oven varies slightly in temperature. Remove when golden brown but not burnt.

• Garnish Thoughtfully – Add toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Tofu

Pairing side dishes with garlic sesame tofu can elevate your meal experience. These sides complement its flavors perfectly while boosting nutrition.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green and crunchy, steamed broccoli adds both color and vitamins to your plate.

2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the savory tofu.

3. Stir-Fried Vegetables – Quickly stir-fry bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots in soy sauce for a colorful side that matches the Asian theme.

4. Coconut Rice – Sweet coconut rice brings a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with garlic sesame flavors.

5. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and complements the rich taste of garlic sesame tofu beautifully.

6. Pickled Cucumbers – Quick-pickled cucumbers add crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish.

7. Edamame Beans – Lightly salted edamame serves as a healthy finger food option that guests will love.

8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory flavors, creating balance on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making garlic sesame tofu can be simple, but certain missteps can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the pressing step: Not pressing the tofu can result in soggy pieces. Always press the tofu to remove excess water for a firmer texture.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: A poor soy sauce can ruin the flavor. Opt for low sodium tamari or a high-quality soy sauce for better taste.
• Not coating the tofu properly: Failing to coat the tofu evenly with cornstarch and breadcrumbs will lead to uneven cooking. Make sure every piece is well-coated before baking.
• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can cause it to become too thick or burnt. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently while it simmers.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds or green onions removes a layer of flavor and presentation. Always add a garnish for a more appealing dish.
• Serving without sides: Eating garlic sesame tofu alone might not be satisfying. Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Garlic sesame tofu can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Tofu

• Place cooled tofu in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Tofu

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power, heating in 30-second increments until hot. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or oil, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about garlic sesame tofu, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some commonly asked questions:

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low sodium?

Yes, you can substitute regular soy sauce, but reduce other salty ingredients accordingly.

Is garlic sesame tofu gluten-free?

Absolutely! By using gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce, this dish remains gluten-free.

How do I make garlic sesame tofu crispy?

Ensure you press and dry the tofu well before coating it with cornstarch and breadcrumbs.

What sides pair well with garlic sesame tofu?

This dish goes wonderfully with steamed broccoli, brown rice, or quinoa.

Can I customize the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or adjust sweetness by varying honey or maple syrup.

Final Thoughts

Garlic sesame tofu is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting flavors to suit your taste. This dish makes a satisfying weeknight dinner that everyone will love!