Sticky Sesame Tofu Recipe
Introduction
Sticky Sesame Tofu is a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish perfect for both tofu lovers and newcomers. Coated in a sweet and tangy sesame sauce, this recipe offers a satisfying texture and rich taste that pairs well with rice or noodles.

Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 16 ounces super firm tofu, cubed and pressed
- 2 tablespoons high heat oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ lime
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
- ¼ cup sliced green onion, optional
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 4 tablespoons soy sauce and 4 tablespoons cornstarch. Add the cubed tofu and toss to fully coat. Set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl or jar, mix ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, brown sugar, rice vinegar, juice of ½ lime, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Set aside.
- Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons high heat oil in a large pan over high heat. Once hot, add the tofu carefully. Cook until most sides are golden and crispy, turning as needed.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to a simmer and pour in the prepared sauce carefully. Cover with a lid and cook for 2 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu.
- Step 5: Serve the tofu hot or cold. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Press the tofu well to remove excess moisture for extra crispiness before coating.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Serve over steamed rice or toss with cooked noodles for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftover sticky sesame tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warm, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular tofu instead of super firm tofu?
Super firm tofu works best because it holds its shape and crisps well. If you use regular or firm tofu, press it thoroughly to remove excess moisture, but the texture may be softer.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
The recipe is vegan as written. To make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free tamari or soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients like rice vinegar and brown sugar are gluten-free certified.
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Sticky Sesame Tofu Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Sticky Sesame Tofu recipe features crispy, golden tofu cubes coated in a flavorful sticky sesame sauce. With a perfect balance of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, this dish is easy to make on the stovetop and makes a delicious vegan and vegetarian main or side dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Tofu Marinade and Coating
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 16 ounces super firm tofu, cubed and pressed
Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ½ lime (juice)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
- ¼ cup sliced green onion (optional)
Cooking Oil
- 2 tablespoons high heat oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- Prepare Tofu: In a large bowl, combine 4 tablespoons soy sauce and 4 tablespoons cornstarch. Add the cubed and pressed tofu and gently toss to coat each piece evenly. Set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Make Sauce: In a separate bowl or jar, mix together ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, juice of half a lime, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger until well combined. Set aside.
- Cook Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of high heat oil in a large pan over high heat. Once hot, add the coated tofu cubes carefully. Cook the tofu, turning occasionally, until most or all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Sauce and Simmer: Reduce heat to a low simmer, pour the prepared sauce over the tofu carefully, and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the sauce to cook and thicken for 2-5 minutes, stirring gently to coat tofu evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with additional sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot or cold as a main or side dish.
Notes
- Press the tofu well to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
- Use super firm tofu to ensure it holds shape during cooking.
- Adjust brown sugar for sweetness according to your preference.
- This dish can be served with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: Sticky Sesame Tofu, Crispy Tofu, Vegan Tofu Recipe, Asian Tofu Stir Fry, Easy Tofu Recipe, Sesame Sauce

