Sticky Sesame Tofu

This sticky sesame tofu recipe combines cornstarch-coated crispy pan-fried tofu tossed in a mouthwatering, sweet, savory, tangy sesame sauce! A delicious gluten-free, vegan protein for noodles, stir-fries, and more!

What Is Sesame Tofu?

There are actually two main types of sesame tofu recipes. The first encrusts the protein in sesame seeds for crunch and flavor (which is also super delicious). The second, and one we’re making, is a ‘sticky sesame tofu’ made by coating pan-fried tofu in a thick and sticky sesame-based sauce.

The sesame tofu sauce is a mouthwatering, delicious blend of sweet, savory, tangy, aromatic flavors with ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar (or maple syrup), and sesame seeds. It completely transforms bland tofu into morsels of pure flavor. Meanwhile, the cornstarch coating lends itself to super crispy pan-fried tofu.

Best of all, you can throw sticky garlic ginger sesame tofu together in just 30 minutes with simple, inexpensive pantry ingredients – perfect for satisfying takeout cravings at a fraction of the price! Plus, it’s super filling and loaded with plant-based protein!

Looking for more simple flavored tofu ideas? Check out our pan-fried garlic tofu (which is similar – minus the sesame!), buttery lemon tofu, or sweet and salty tofu bites.

The Ingredients and Substitutes

The Crispy Tofu

• Tofu: Use extra-firm tofu (pressed) or super-firm tofu (no need to press) for the best texture.
• Cornstarch: This helps to produce super crispy pan-fried tofu.
• Soy sauce: Regular or reduced-sodium soy sauce to add heaps of savory, umami-rich flavor. Use tamari or coconut aminos if gluten-free.
• Oil: Use a high-heat cooking oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil rather than olive oil.

The Sesame Sauce

• Soy sauce: Dark soy sauce contains more flavor depth, but use a reduced-sodium version if preferred. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.
• Brown sugar: Or another sweetener, such as coconut sugar (unrefined). You could also use a brown sugar alternative or maple syrup.
• Rice vinegar: For a slightly sweet tang in the garlic sesame tofu sauce.
• Lime juice: Add depth to the tanginess with fresh lime juice (or lemon juice).  
• Aromatics: This sesame oil tofu relies on fresh ginger and garlic for heaps of flavor. Pre-minced versions work in a pinch, and technically, powdered versions will work, too, but they won’t taste as impressive.
• Sesame oil: Use toasted sesame oil for a super nutty, toasty flavor.
• Sesame seeds: We use a blend of white and black sesame seeds.
• Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce. Arrowroot flour would also work.
• Green onion: Optional but highly recommended for a touch of freshness to garnish the pan-fried sesame garlic tofu.

What Could I Add to Vegan Sesame Tofu?

• Red pepper flakes: For spicy sesame tofu. Add to taste. Chili paste/gochujang or cayenne pepper would work, too.
• Tomato puree: A touch of tomato puree adds a tangy, savory richness.
• Hoisin sauce: Just a little adds sweet and tangy depth.

How to Make Sesame Tofu?

Get this highly aromatic, mouthwateringly delicious sticky garlic ginger sesame tofu on your table in just a handful of simple, low-fuss steps.

• First, if you haven’t already, drain and press the tofu. Then cut it into ½-inch cubes.
• Then, in a large bowl, combine the soy sauce and cornstarch and mix until lump-free. Toss in the tofu and mix well to fully coat. Then set aside.

• Next, peel and mince the garlic and ginger, combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl, and set it aside.

The easiest way to peel ginger is with a spoon, scraping it over the peel.

• Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, carefully add the tofu to the pan and pan-fry it until all sides are crispy and golden.

It’s best not to move it around the pan too much. Leave it to sear on each side, flipping when needed. Reduce the heat if necessary.

• Then, reduce the heat to a simmer and pour in the sauce ingredients. Cover it with a lid and let it thicken for 2-5 minutes. Finally, garnish it with sesame seeds and sliced green onion, and enjoy!

FAQs

Pro Recipe Tips

• Tweak the flavors: E.g., more or less sugar, vinegar/lime, etc.
• Change the tofu shape: You could tear it apart instead of cubing it. This creates different sizes and shapes and more edges/nooks to crisp up – for varied texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the tofu: It needs space to crisp up. Cook in batches if necessary.
• For crispy tofu: Don’t move it around the pan! Leave it to sear on each side, flipping between for the crispiest tofu.
• For a thicker/thinner sauce: For a thinner sauce, add a little water. For a thicker one, add extra cornstarch in a slurry (to avoid lumps).
• For a more saucy dish: Double or even triple the amount of sauce if you want extra to coat noodles/grains, etc.

Storage Instructions

Leave any leftovers to cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just note that the tofu will soften over time (but still taste great).

You can then reheat it either on the stovetop or even in a microwave.

You could also technically freeze the crispy sesame tofu, but the tofu will become very soft, and the texture changes – so we prefer not to.

What to Serve With Sticky Sesame Tofu?

• Grains/noodles: E.g., serve the sesame tofu over rice, quinoa, or noodles.
• Stir fry: Pair it with veggies for a simple stir-fry. E.g., sesame tofu with broccoli.
• Veggies: Like broccoli, cauliflower, carrot, bell peppers, bok choy, green beans, etc.
• Salad: Serve the sticky sesame tofu over a bed of lettuce or as part of a larger salad/grain bowl (including a vegan sushi bowl or poke bowl).
• Wraps: Enjoy the sesame garlic tofu in wraps with fresh veggies (like shredded carrot, cucumber, avocado, leafy greens, etc.)

More Easy Tofu Recipes

• Buffalo tofu
• Pineapple glazed tofu ‘ham’
• Tofu fillets with tomato herb sauce
• Sweet and spicy tofu
• Lime tofu with green beans
• Crispy breaded tofu sticks

Photos by Alfonso Revilla