Short description

Crispy tofu cubes tossed in a savory sesame glaze, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds for a flavorful and satisfying plant-based dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sticky sesame tofu bites offer the perfect balance of crisp texture and bold umami flavor. The tofu is pan-fried or baked until golden, then coated in a thick, sticky glaze made with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. This dish is ideal for both vegans and meat-eaters looking for a delicious protein-packed alternative. It works wonderfully as an appetizer, snack, or a main course served over rice or noodles.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Extra-firm tofu
Cornstarch (for coating)
Vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Maple syrup or honey (for sweetness)
Rice vinegar
Garlic, minced
Ginger, minced
Water
Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water)
Sesame seeds
Scallions, chopped

directions

Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
Toss the tofu in cornstarch to lightly coat each piece.
Heat oil in a nonstick skillet or bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until golden and crispy on all sides.
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup or honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Simmer gently.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens to a sticky consistency.
Toss the crispy tofu in the sauce until evenly coated.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 3–4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add chili flakes or Sriracha for a spicy version.
Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or stir-fried vegetables.
For a lower-fat version, bake the tofu instead of frying.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tofu soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use silken tofu for this recipe?

No, silken tofu is too soft and will not hold its shape when cooked. Extra-firm tofu is the best choice.

2. How do I get tofu crispy?

Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly and coat it lightly with cornstarch. Cook in a hot skillet with enough oil or bake it until golden.

3. Can I make this recipe oil-free?

Yes, bake the tofu on parchment paper without oil. The texture will be slightly less crispy but still delicious.

4. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it is fully vegan if you use maple syrup instead of honey.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and tofu separately and combine them just before serving.

6. What kind of soy sauce should I use?

Regular soy sauce works well. If you want a lighter taste, use low-sodium soy sauce.

7. Can I freeze cooked tofu?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked tofu, but the texture may change slightly. Reheat in the oven for best results.

8. Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently. You can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer heat.

9. What should I serve this with?

Sticky sesame tofu pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

10. How long does the sauce last?

The sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Conclusion

Sticky sesame tofu bites are an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a meatless meal. With a sweet-savory glaze, crisp texture, and nourishing ingredients, this recipe is a staple for plant-based cooking and a delightful treat for everyone at the table.