Crispy Baked Sesame Tofu Recipe

Savor crispy baked tofu bursting with bold garlic, ginger, and sesame flavors. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful vegan and gluten free dish that pairs wonderfully with rice or salad. Enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet and spicy notes in every satisfying bite.

I’ve been experimenting a lot with tofu recipes lately and this Crispy Baked Sesame Tofu has quickly become one of my favorites for a weeknight dinner. Its nutritional benefits are impressive, packed with protein and low in fat, while still being completely vegan and gluten free.

I start with 14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes, then toss it with 3 Tblsp gluten free soy sauce and 2 Tblsp cornstarch before it goes into the oven. Adding 1 Tblsp sesame oil, 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 tsp grated fresh ginger makes a flavorful marinade that really awakens the natural taste of tofu.

A splash of 1 Tblsp rice vinegar and 1 Tblsp maple syrup brighten the dish and for a spicy kick, I sometimes add 1 tsp Sriracha. I finish it off with a light sprinkle of 1-2 Tblsp sesame seeds and salt and pepper to taste.

This is a great option for those looking for tasty vegetarian recipes and meatless meals that are healthy and satisfying.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this garlic sesame tofu recipe for so many reasons. First, I like that it only takes about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients which is great when I’m super busy after school or work. Second, it’s completely vegan and gluten free so I feel good about eating something healthy and tasty at the same time. Third, the flavors are just awesome; the garlic and ginger mix so nicely with the soy sauce and a little bit of Sriracha gives it a spicy kick that always surprises me. Lastly, I like how simple it is to customize the marinade if I ever feel like switching things up a bit. Overall, it’s my go-to weeknight dinner that never disappoints.

Ingredients

• Extra firm tofu is rich in protein, low in carbs, boosting satiety and muscle repair.
• Gluten free soy sauce delivers a savory, umami kick while giving the dish balanced saltiness.
• Sesame oil infuses a nutty, aromatic flavor enhancing the tofu’s crisp texture and taste.
• Cornstarch acts as a light coating, creating a delightfully crispy, baked exterior on tofu.
• Garlic adds a punchy, aromatic spice that melds beautifully with the tangy ingredients.
• Fresh ginger gives a zesty, warming note that enlivens the overall flavor profile.
• Maple syrup balances flavors with natural sweetness, harmonizing the spice and tang in every bite.

Ingredient Quantities

• 14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
• 3 Tblsp gluten free soy sauce or tamari
• 2 Tblsp cornstarch
• 1 Tblsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 Tblsp rice vinegar
• 1 Tblsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp Sriracha (optional for a spicy kick)
• 1-2 Tblsp sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Press the tofu to remove excess water and cut it into cubes.

3. In a large bowl, mix the soy sauce (or tamari), sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and Sriracha if you want a spicy kick.

4. Toss the tofu cubes in this marinade and let them sit for 5 minutes to soak up the flavors.

5. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and gently toss to coat every piece evenly.

6. Carefully transfer the tofu cubes onto the baking sheet in a single layer so they can crisp up nicely.

7. Bake the tofu in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through so they brown on all sides.

8. Once done, remove the tofu from the oven and sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top, along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

9. Let the tofu cool for a few minutes before serving.

10. Enjoy your crispy baked sesame tofu with your favorite sides like rice, veggies, or a salad!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Tofu press (or paper towels with a heavy pan for pressing)
5. Cutting board
6. Knife
7. Large mixing bowl
8. Measuring spoons
9. Spatula or wooden spoon
10. Tongs

These are the key items you’ll need to prep and bake the tofu as described.

FAQ

Crispy Baked Sesame Tofu Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten free soy sauce or tamari – You could use coconut aminos instead. It’s a bit sweeter and works almost the same.
• Cornstarch – Try using arrowroot powder if you ran out. It helps crisp the tofu up just fine.
• Sesame oil – If you don’t have sesame oil, a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil can do the trick, though ya might lose a bit of that nutty flavor.
• Rice vinegar – Apple cider vinegar is a decent substitute too, just use a little less since it tends to be stronger.
• Sriracha – If you want a spicy kick but don’t have Sriracha, any good hot sauce or chili garlic sauce will work pretty well.

Pro Tips

1. Try marinating the tofu for a bit longer than five minutes if you have the time so it really soaks up all the flavours, but be careful not to overdo it or the texture might get too soft.
2. Make sure to press out as much water as possible from the tofu before you cut it, coz excess moisture can lead to soggy tofu instead of that perfect crispy finish.
3. When coating in cornstarch, gently toss the tofu so you don’t break it up, and remember that a light dusting works better than heavy, which can make it too thick.
4. Spread the tofu pieces out on the baking sheet roomy enough to avoid crowding them, coz if they overlap, they might steam instead of getting that nice, even crisp.