Introduction
Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a crispy and flavorful dish with just a few simple steps. This recipe features extra-firm tofu coated in a delightful sesame crust, complemented by a rich teriyaki sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, this recipe is sure to impress even tofu skeptics.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Tofu
4 extra firm or hard tofu, cut into 10 x 5 x 1.5cm slices (4 x 2 x 0.6″), 100g / 3.5oz each (Note 1)
Seasoning
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
Crust Coating
2 tbsp flour, plain/all purpose
1 egg, lightly whisked
4 tbsp white sesame seeds (Note 2)
4 tbsp black sesame seeds (Note 2)
Cooking
2 tbsp canola/vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, finely sliced 1mm thick (optional, Note 2)
1 green onion, finely sliced (for garnish)
Teriyaki Sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce, preferably Japanese all-purpose, else light soy sauce (Note 4)
2 tbsp mirin, preferably Japanese (Note 5)
2 tbsp cooking sake, preferably Japanese (Note 6)
2 tbsp water
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
With this combination of ingredients and a little culinary finesse, you’ll create a dish that highlights the wonderful texture and flavor of tofu. Follow the cooking instructions carefully, and you’ll reap the rewards of a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
SESAME COATING:
Pat the tofu dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the tofu slices.
Prepare crust coating:
Set up three separate bowls or shallow containers: one with flour, one with the lightly whisked egg, and one with the mixed white and black sesame seeds.
Sesame crust:
Take each tofu slice and press it into the flour, ensuring it is coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured tofu into the whisked egg, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat the tofu in the sesame seeds, pressing them onto the tofu to ensure they adhere well. Repeat this process with the remaining tofu slices.
COOKING:
Heat the canola or vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Crispy garlic:
Add the finely sliced garlic to the skillet and cook until it turns golden and crisp. Once done, remove the garlic and drain it on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Cook tofu:
Increase the heat to medium-high. Carefully place the coated tofu slices in the skillet and cook for about 1 1/2 minutes until the sesame crust releases a nutty aroma and becomes crisp. Turn the tofu slices gently and cook the other side for another 1 1/2 minutes. To sear the edges, use tongs to prop the tofu steaks up on their sides and cook for approximately 30 seconds on each edge.
Drain:
Once cooked, transfer the tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining oil.
Teriyaki Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the ingredients for the Teriyaki Sauce to the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 1 minute, or until it reduces to a syrupy consistency. Remove the skillet from the stove.
Serve:
Place a tofu steak on a serving plate. Spoon the Teriyaki sauce over the tofu (it will cling to the sesame crust without making it soggy). Garnish with the crispy garlic and finely sliced green onion. Enjoy your dish enthusiastically!
Notes
Note 1:
Using extra firm or hard tofu is crucial for achieving the best texture in this recipe.
Note 2:
4 tablespoons of sesame seeds (both white and black) are required to ensure a well-coated, flavorful crust. Optionally, the garlic can enhance the overall flavor.
Note 3:
For the teriyaki sauce, using Japanese soy sauce, mirin, and cooking sake is recommended for authentic flavor; however, lighter alternatives can suffice if necessary.
Cook techniques
Preparing Tofu
Pat the tofu dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a crispy texture when cooked.
Seasoning
Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the tofu slices after drying to enhance flavor.
Coating Process
Set up three separate bowls for the flour, lightly whisked egg, and sesame seeds. Press each tofu piece into the flour, shake off the excess, dip in the egg, and then coat in sesame seeds while pressing to ensure they stick well.
Cooking Garlic
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add finely sliced garlic and cook until golden and crisp, then remove and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Tofu
Increase the skillet heat to medium-high, then add the coated tofu slices. Cook each side for 1.5 minutes until the sesame seeds are nutty and crispy. Sear the edges of the tofu by propping the slices on their sides for about 30 seconds each.
Draining
Transfer the cooked tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Preparing Teriyaki Sauce
Lower the heat after removing the tofu and add the Teriyaki sauce ingredients into the skillet. Simmer for 1 minute until a syrupy consistency is achieved.
Serving
Place the tofu steak on a plate, drizzle with the Teriyaki sauce, and garnish with crispy garlic and sliced green onion before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of tofu?
For best results, use extra firm or hard tofu, as it holds its shape better during cooking.
How do I ensure the sesame crust stays crispy?
Make sure to pat the tofu dry before seasoning and avoid overcrowding the skillet while cooking, which can create steam.
What can I substitute for mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can use a mixture of sake and sugar as a substitute.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for cooking sake?
For a vegetarian option, you can use additional mirin or a combination of white wine and water.
How do I store leftover tofu?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but note that the crust may lose its crispiness when reheated.
Conclusion
This crispy sesame tofu with teriyaki sauce is a delightful way to enjoy plant-based protein. The combination of crunchy sesame seeds and a rich, flavorful sauce elevates the humble tofu into an exciting dish that’s sure to please both tofu lovers and skeptics alike.
Tofu Stir-Fry
Combine marinated tofu with a mix of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, and stir-fry with soy sauce and sesame oil for a quick and nutritious meal.
Tofu Salad
Cube crispy tofu and toss it into a salad with fresh greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a sesame dressing for a refreshing, protein-packed lunch.
Tofu Tacos
Use seasoned and cooked tofu as filling for tacos, adding toppings like shredded cabbage, salsa, and avocado for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos.
Tofu Curry
Incorporate crispy tofu into a coconut milk-based curry with vegetables such as spinach and snap peas, serving it over rice for a hearty dinner.
Tofu Spring Rolls
Wrap crispy tofu slices in rice paper along with fresh herbs and vermicelli noodles, served with a tangy dipping sauce for a light appetizer.
Maple Glazed Tofu
Glaze baked or pan-fried tofu with a mixture of maple syrup, soy sauce, and garlic for a sweet and savory dish that pairs well with rice and vegetables.
