Better Than Takeout Sesame Tofu Recipe

Craving takeout but want a healthier, tastier option? This crispy sesame tofu recipe is it! Perfectly crunchy tofu coated in a luscious, homemade sesame sauce and served over fluffy jasmine rice. Say goodbye to greasy takeout and hello to this easy-to-follow recipe that's ready in under an hour. We've swapped broccolini for broccoli for even more deliciousness!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 405.9 kcal
Protein 19g
Rating 4.7 (3 Reviews)
Better Than Takeout Sesame Tofu

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Better Than Takeout Sesame Tofu

  • Extra Firm Tofu
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • Peanut Oil
  • Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 1 large head of broccoli
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili garlic paste (or to taste)
  • Garlic Clove

How to Make Better Than Takeout Sesame Tofu

  1. Press 14 oz extra-firm tofu: Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices. Place in a 9x13 baking pan lined with a tea towel; top with another towel and a second baking pan. Weight down (with books or cans) and press for 20-30 minutes.
  2. Cube the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes.
  3. Whisk together 1/4 cup cornstarch and 2 large eggs in a shallow dish. Add tofu cubes and toss to coat, ensuring each cube is fully coated and dry.
  4. In a small saucepan, whisk together: 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon chili garlic paste (or to taste), and 2 cloves minced garlic.
  5. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
  6. While the sauce simmers, heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  7. Add tofu cubes to the hot oil in a single layer, ensuring they don't overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Transfer the cooked tofu to a paper-towel-lined plate.
  9. Wipe out the skillet and add 1 tablespoon oil. Add 1 large head of broccoli florets and saute for 2-4 minutes, until bright green and tender.
  10. Return the tofu to the skillet. Pour the sesame sauce over the tofu and broccoli. Stir to coat everything evenly.
  11. Serve immediately over cooked jasmine rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

22 g

Sugar

102g

Fat

21g

Carbs

12g

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