Name: Honey Sesame Tofu
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: ½ pound extra-firm tofu; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or mild olive oil for frying); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger root; 1 large garlic clove (peeled and minced or pressed through a garlic press); ½ tablespoon sesame seeds; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons honey; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (more if you like it spicier); 1 teaspoon corn starch; 4 scallions (green onions) (chopped)

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When I think of comfort food, Honey Sesame Tofu instantly comes to mind. This dish brings back memories of cozy evenings spent in the kitchen, experimenting with flavors that dance on the palate. I remember the first time I made it – the kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of honey and sesame, welcoming my family to the dinner table. It’s amazing how a simple combination of ingredients can transform into something so delightful. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, Honey Sesame Tofu fits the bill perfectly!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
15 g

Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
measuring cups and spoons, ginger grater, garlic press (optional), knife and cutting board, plate, paper towels, cast iron or non-stick pan, kitchen tongs, liquid measuring cup, whisk

Why This Honey Sesame Tofu Is a Winner

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The beauty of Honey Sesame Tofu lies in its balance of sweetness and savoriness. The honey creates a luscious glaze that coats the crispy tofu, making every bite delightful. The sesame oil adds a nutty depth that enhances the overall flavor profile, making it irresistible.

Easy to Make

This recipe is perfect for anyone, regardless of their cooking experience. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time. It’s a great way to practice cooking tofu, which can often seem intimidating for beginners. Trust me, mastering Honey Sesame Tofu will boost your confidence in the kitchen!

Healthy and Nutritious

Not only is Honey Sesame Tofu delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Tofu is a fantastic source of protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. Paired with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of that sweet sauce, you have a well-rounded meal that tastes great and is good for you!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is fantastic for meal prepping! You can make a big batch of Honey Sesame Tofu and refrigerate it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat the tofu and enjoy a healthy meal in minutes!

Customizable

Feel free to customize Honey Sesame Tofu to your liking! Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to create a colorful stir-fry. You can also adjust the heat by adding more crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little spice!

What to Gather for Honey Sesame Tofu

The ingredients for Honey Sesame Tofu are simple, yet they come together beautifully to create a remarkable dish. Each component plays a vital role in balancing the flavors and textures, resulting in a meal that’s satisfying and wholesome.

½ pound of extra-firm tofu: The main component of this dish. It absorbs flavors well and has a wonderful texture when cooked correctly.
½ cup of all-purpose flour: This is used to coat the tofu, giving it a crispy exterior during frying.
About 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil: Essential for frying the tofu to achieve that perfect golden brown color.
3 tablespoons of soy sauce: Adds a salty umami flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.
2 tablespoons of unseasoned rice vinegar: Provides acidity to balance the dish.
1 teaspoon of finely grated fresh ginger root: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
1 large garlic clove: Enhances the dish with its pungent flavor.
½ tablespoon of sesame seeds: For garnishing, adding a delightful crunch.
1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil: Infuses a rich nutty flavor.
2 tablespoons of honey: The star ingredient that sweetens the dish.
¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of spice.
1 teaspoon of corn starch: Used to thicken the sauce.
4 scallions (green onions): Chopped for garnish, adding freshness.

Recipe Steps for Honey Sesame Tofu

Cooking Honey Sesame Tofu is a delightful experience. You’ll love watching the tofu turn golden brown as it fries, and the sauce bubbling away on the stove. Let’s dive into the steps!

Start by draining the block of tofu. Wrap it in a clean paper towel or a clean kitchen towel and place a plate on top to press it down. This helps remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy texture. Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Once the tofu is pressed, cut it into ¾-inch cubes. Take your time with this step to ensure even cooking later on.
Next, dry the cubes with a paper towel. This step is essential to ensure the flour adheres well and helps the tofu fry perfectly.
In a shallow dish, add the all-purpose flour. Roll the tofu cubes in the flour, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides. This will create a beautiful crispy layer once fried.
Heat about 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a cast iron or non-stick pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. To know if the oil is ready, you can drop a small piece of tofu in; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
Carefully add the coated tofu cubes to the pan in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use kitchen tongs to flip them gently.
Once browned, transfer the fried tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This keeps the cubes crispy.
In a liquid measuring cup, combine all the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, toasted sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk well until fully combined.
Pour the sauce mixture into a saucepan and bring it to a full boil over medium heat. Keep whisking continuously to prevent sticking. This will help thicken the sauce, turning it translucent.
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Drizzle the sauce generously over the fried tofu cubes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a fresh touch.
Serve the Honey Sesame Tofu immediately with cooked rice or your favorite grains. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Choose the Right Tofu: Using extra-firm tofu is key for this recipe. It holds its shape better and fries up perfectly.
Pressing Tofu: Don’t skip the pressing step! Removing excess moisture allows the tofu to become crispy and absorb more flavor.
Temperature Control: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the tofu. This prevents it from becoming soggy.
Thickening Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thickening, consider adding a bit more corn starch mixed with water to help it reach the desired consistency.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many ways to enjoy Honey Sesame Tofu. Here are some tips to customize it to your taste!

Storage: Make sure to store leftover fried tofu cubes and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This helps maintain their textures.
Freezing: You can freeze the fried tofu for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or quinoa. Add some stir-fried broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition!
Spice Levels: Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by experimenting with the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies while cooking. Bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots work excellently.

How to Serve Honey Sesame Tofu

Serving Honey Sesame Tofu is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Serve it Hot: Always serve Honey Sesame Tofu hot, right after cooking to enjoy the crispy texture.
With Rice: Pair it with fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Vegetable Sides: Consider serving alongside stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a colorful, nutritious plate.
In a Bowl: Make a delicious rice bowl by layering rice, vegetables, and Honey Sesame Tofu. Drizzle with extra sauce for flavor.
Family Style: Serve the dish family-style in the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a fun and communal dining experience.
Garnishing: Finish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fragrant touch!

FAQ

Absolutely! Honey Sesame Tofu is naturally vegan if you use plant-based honey or a suitable alternative. It’s delicious and perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle.

Store leftover Honey Sesame Tofu in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The fried tofu should be kept in one container and the sauce in another to maintain their textures. They can last for up to three days in the fridge.

Definitely! Honey Sesame Tofu is very versatile. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color. Just stir-fry them along with the tofu for a delicious meal.

The spice level of Honey Sesame Tofu can be adjusted according to your preference. The recipe calls for crushed red pepper flakes, but you can start with less and add more if you enjoy a bit of heat. It’s all about your personal taste!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Honey Sesame Tofu is a delightful dish that brings together crispy tofu and a luscious sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s an easy recipe to make, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try it for yourself; you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy every flavorful bite as you create a memorable meal for you and your loved ones.