Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Broccoli

The Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines fantastic flavors and textures. Imagine crispy tofu nestled amongst tender, vibrant broccoli, all coated in a tangy sesame sauce. Sounds mouthwatering, right? This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for you and your loved ones.

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Broccoli
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Tofu
• Press the Tofu for Optimal Texture
• Making the Sesame Sauce
• Create the Flavor Base
• Preparing the Tofu for Cooking
• Coat the Tofu
• Cooking the Tofu
• Achieving Crispiness
• Stir-Frying the Broccoli
• Cooking the Vegetables
• Bringing It All Together
• Combine Tofu and Sauce
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, whether that means adding more garlic or swapping out the broccoli for your favorite veggie. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make a warm, satisfying Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Broccoli that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Why This Recipe Works

The perfect combination of crispy tofu and tender broccoli creates a satisfying texture. Each bite delivers a crunch complemented by the soft, flavorful greens. Plus, this dish shines because of the tangy sesame sauce. It brings together a medley of flavors, lifting the entire meal.

Using extra-firm tofu ensures a crispy exterior without losing its structure. The high protein content makes it filling, while also absorbing the sauce beautifully. When you serve it, you’ll love how the textures contrast while the flavors meld.

Why You’ll Love This Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Broccoli

This is a quick and easy recipe, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. You don’t need a culinary degree; just follow the steps, and you’ll have a meal ready in no time. Also, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy option. With tofu and broccoli, you’re giving your body the nourishment it craves.

Another reason to love this dish is its customization. You can tweak ingredients based on your taste preferences; feel free to swap the broccoli for snap peas or add extra ginger. Every time you make it, it can turn into something a bit different, keeping your meals exciting.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 Tbsp water
• 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 14 oz block extra-firm tofu
• Pinch of salt
• 2 Tbsp cornstarch (for frying)
• 2 Tbsp neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut)
• 1/2 lb frozen broccoli florets
• 3-4 green onions, sliced
• 4 cups cooked rice

Preparing the Tofu

Press the Tofu for Optimal Texture

Start by pressing the tofu to achieve that crispy texture. Place a few folded paper towels on a large plate and set the tofu on top. Then, cover it with more paper towels, place a second plate on top, and weigh it down with some canned goods. This pressing action helps extract excess moisture, crucial for crispiness. Give it at least 30 minutes, so the tofu firms up and is ready for cooking.

Making the Sesame Sauce

Create the Flavor Base

While the tofu is pressing, let’s whip up that delicious sesame sauce. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, water, toasted sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame seeds, and cornstarch. Stir until both the sugar and the cornstarch are fully dissolved. This rich sauce will be the star of the dish, so set it aside, and let those flavors meld.

Preparing the Tofu for Cooking

Coat the Tofu

Now, once your tofu is pressed, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes and sprinkle a pinch of salt over them. These little cubes need to be tossed with 1 Tablespoon of cornstarch. This step ensures that they will crisp up beautifully in the pan. Repeat this process with the remaining cornstarch until they are all evenly coated.

Cooking the Tofu

Achieving Crispiness

Next, let’s get cooking! Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Once the oil is hot, add the coated tofu cubes. Cook them until they turn golden brown on all sides, flipping them as necessary to achieve that perfect crunch. This part is fun—watch them sizzle! Once they are crispy, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside on a clean plate.

Stir-Frying the Broccoli

Cooking the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the frozen broccoli florets to the remnants of the oil and sauté them. Stir-fry until they begin to brown slightly; this enhances their natural flavors. Lower the heat to medium-low, ensuring the broccoli cooks through without burning. This time, let the flavors build even further in the skillet.

Bringing It All Together

Combine Tofu and Sauce

Now comes the best part! Stir the sesame sauce again to ensure everything is blended well, then pour it into the skillet with the broccoli. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce begins to bubble and thicken. Make sure you’re continually stirring, so it doesn’t stick! Finally, gently fold in the crispy tofu cubes. They deserve a warm, flavorful bath in that sauce!

Serving Suggestions

Now it’s time to plate up! Serve the pan-fried tofu and broccoli over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. This creates a perfect base. To make it look even more appealing, garnish with sliced green onions. They add a lovely flavor and a pop of color—making your meal as beautiful as it is delicious.

Tips for Success

For maximum crispiness, ensure the tofu is adequately pressed. This is crucial, as excess moisture can lead to sogginess. Also, don’t hesitate to adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste. Need more sweetness? Add a bit more brown sugar! Keeping the skillet hot while cooking the tofu aids in achieving that golden, even finish, so keep an eye on it.

Variations

Feel free to have fun with this recipe! You can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Want to switch up the base? Consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a healthier option.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the dish on the stovetop. This method helps retain its crispiness instead of making it soggy in the microwave.

Pairing Ideas

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving alongside a side of miso soup or a fresh salad. They complement the main dish nicely. For a truly authentic touch, pair it with a chilled sake or some green tea while you savor your creation.

FAQs

1. Can I make this tofu recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

3. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli works well; just steam or blanch it briefly before adding to the pan.

4. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

5. How do I get my tofu super crispy?
Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture and coat it well with cornstarch.

With the Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Broccoli, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating an experience packed with flavor and nutrition. This dish delights with its perfect harmony of textures and will undoubtedly become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy cooking! Remember, each time you make it, you can add your personal touch, making it truly yours. Happy cooking!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Tikka Masala with Spiced Meatballs
• Chicken Caesar Salad Dip
• Spring Pork Tenderloin
• Tagliatelle with Pea Pesto and Crème Fraîche

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