Tofu is one of my go-to affordable protein sources and after serving it to my kids enough times, they finally like it and I can never seem to make enough. This easy Sesame Tofu recipe is one of our favorite ways to enjoy it!
Sesame Tofu
Tofu seems to be one of those divisive foods that people either love or hate, but I’m firmly in the love camp—and this easy methods of making it has made my kids fans too. It’s packed with plant-based protein, is super inexpensive, and is a perfect texture for babies and toddlers to easily eat. Oh and: You can flavor it in so many ways!
Tofu Recipes
Knowing how to cook tofu can seem daunting if you’re new to it, but this healthy way of cooking Sesame Tofu is both easy and delicious. This method of making pan-fried tofu is how my family loves it best (well in addition to Tofu Nuggets!) and I make it a few times a month. TIP: The toasted sesame oil adds really nice flavor to this recipe, but you can also use olive oil or butter for a more neutral flavor if you prefer. 
Ingredients in Sesame Tofu
To make this simple family dinner, you’ll just need tofu and toasted sesame oil. That’s it! (And whatever else you plan to serve it with for dinner.) You will want to buy extra-firm tofu to ensure the best results.
What kind of tofu is best in this recipe?
Extra-firm tofu works best in this recipe, or at least it’s the texture that I prefer. It holds it’s shape nicely and doesn’t break much when cooking. “Firm” and “soft” tofu will be less firm than “extra-firm” and may break up a bit as you turn each piece over. TIP: You can also try using the super firm tofu from Trader Joe’s, which is much firmer (and has more protein since more water has been removed.) It’s denser and therefore has a more solid texture.
How to Make Sesame Tofu Step by Step
Here’s a look at the easy process involved in making this tofu recipe.
- Remove the tofu from the package and drain off the liquid. Place on a towel-lined plate, top with another clean towel and plate. Let sit.
- Chop tofu.
- Pan-fry in warm oil.
- Flip to finish cooking.
TIP: Draining the liquid and letting the tofu sit between towels helps remove some of the moisture from the tofu which helps it to crisp up nicely.
What should I serve this tofu with?
We like this healthy tofu with rice and sauteed veggies. You can saute any mix of chopped veggies like carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, in a little additional toasted sesame oil. We also make it regularly with olive oil or butter to serve with Pesto Pasta.
TIP: If you want to add extra flavor to a rice bowl with Sesame Tofu, you can drizzle with a little soy sauce and honey for an easy riff on teriyaki sauce.
Tips for Making the Best Sesame Tofu
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Warm to serve.
- To do this in a cast iron or stainless steel skillet, use 2 tablespoons oil to ensure it doesn’t stick. Let the oil warm for at least 30 seconds in the pan before adding the tofu to ensure it doesn’t stick.
- Drain the tofu on towels stacked with plates for the best texture.
- Use olive oil or butter for a more neutral flavor.
- Use “extra-firm” tofu for the best texture.
- Add a little reduced-sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari), Peanut Sauce, or teriyaki sauce for additional flavor.
I’d love to hear what you think of this recipe if you try it, so please comment below with feedback!
Quick and Easy Sesame Tofu
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 16 ounce container extra-firm tofu
Instructions
- Open the tofu and remove it from the package. Discard the liquid.
- Place it on top of a towel-lined plate. Top with another towel and plate. Let sit for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours. (You can do this in the morning and stick it into the fridge to wait for dinner.)
- Dice the tofu.
- Warm the oil in a large nonstick skillet. Add the tofu and let cook for about 6 minutes.
- Flip over and cook for an additional 6 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with rice, veggies, or eggs.
Equipment
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Warm to serve.
- To do this in a cast iron or stainless steel skillet, use 2 tablespoons oil to ensure it doesn't stick. Let the oil warm for at least 30 seconds in the pan before adding the tofu to ensure it doesn't stick.
- Drain the tofu on towels stacked with plates for the best texture.
- Use olive oil or butter for a more neutral flavor.
- Use "extra-firm" tofu for the best texture.
- Add a little reduced-sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari), Peanut Sauce, or teriyaki sauce for additional flavor.
How long will the cooked tofu last?
About 5 days in a container in the fridge.
This was so good in stir fry! Baby loved it. Toddler licked it. It was a great first exposure to tofu.
I’m so glad to hear it!