Sesame Tofu
A savory and nutty sesame tofu dish featuring crispy cubes topped with a flavorful soy and sesame sauce, perfect for a quick, plant-based meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the tofu into 1/4-inch thick slices or 3/4-inch cubes.
- Mix soy sauce, sliced green onion, toasted sesame seed, sesame seed oil, and ground almonds in a small bowl.
- Place the sliced tofu in a dish and pour the sauce mixture over the top, creating a layered effect.
- Cook in a microwave for about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Optionally, transfer to a stainless steel pot or pan to bring to a boil.
- Cook for about 3 minutes on medium-high heat.
- Serve with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer texture, press the tofu before cutting to remove excess moisture. If you don't have ground almonds, use another nut or seed, like cashews or sunflower seeds. Adjust the soy sauce based on your salt preference, and feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish for added nutrition. This recipe also works as a part of various vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame tofu over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Church Cabbage Salad for a refreshing crunch. Consider adding a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light soup to balance the meal. Garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes or sauté in a pan until heated through. If the tofu seems dry, add a splash of soy sauce or water to maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Tofu contains roughly 792 calories, with 26g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1377mg per serving (60% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of tofu?
Yes, you can use silken tofu for a creamier texture, but be mindful that it won't hold its shape as well. For a firmer option, stick with extra-firm tofu for better structure during cooking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This sesame tofu can be prepared in advance and stored for easy meals throughout the week. Just keep the sauce separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the tofu from becoming too soggy.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari, which is gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the same flavors without the gluten, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).