Ready for a meal that’s both healthy and packed with flavor? My Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir Fry is just the dish you need. It combines crunchy veggies and golden, crispy tofu for a delightful bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe is quick to make and even faster to disappear. Let’s get started on creating a dish that satisfies your taste buds and your health goals!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 3 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 cup sugar snap peas
– 3 green onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Approximate Nutritional Information
A serving of this dish has about 300 calories. It provides 15 grams of protein, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 18 grams of fat. This makes it a balanced meal, packed with nutrients and flavor. You enjoy protein from tofu and fiber from vegetables. This stir fry is also low in calories, making it a great option for a healthy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Tofu
To start, you need to press the tofu. This helps to remove extra water. Wrap the tofu in a clean towel and place a weight on top. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This step is key for crispy tofu.
Next, cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Take the cubed tofu and toss it with cornstarch. Make sure all sides are coated. This cornstarch layer will give the tofu a great crunch.
Cooking Process
Now, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil is hot, then add the tofu cubes. Spread them in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry the tofu for 3-4 minutes on each side. You want it golden and crispy.
Once the tofu is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss in the sliced bell pepper, broccoli florets, julienned carrot, and sugar snap peas. Stir-fry these veggies for 5-7 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp.
After the veggies are ready, add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for one more minute. This will fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
Now, return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and gently toss everything to mix. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat the tofu through.
Final Adjustments
At this point, season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. This adds flavor and makes your dish look great.
For presentation, serve the stir-fry in a shallow bowl or on a plate. Add extra green onions and sesame seeds on top. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your tasty, healthy dish!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crispy Tofu
To get crispy tofu, first, you must press it. Pressing removes water. This step helps the tofu become crispy when cooked. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel. Place a weight on top for about 15 to 20 minutes. This simple trick makes a big difference.
For frying, sesame oil is the best choice. It has a rich flavor and high smoke point. Use it to fry your tofu until it’s golden and crunchy. You can also mix it with a little vegetable oil if you want.
Stir-Frying Techniques
Heat settings matter when stir-frying. Start with medium-high heat for the best results. This helps to cook your food quickly while keeping it crisp. If the heat is too low, the tofu and veggies may become soggy.
Keep your vegetables crisp by not overcrowding the pan. Stir-fry in batches if needed. This gives each piece space to cook evenly. Stir-fry the veggies just until tender but still bright in color—about 5 to 7 minutes.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, try adding extra seasonings. A dash of chili flakes can add heat. You can also use sesame seeds for more texture. If you like a sweet touch, a splash of honey or maple syrup works well.
Pair your stir-fry with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa. These options balance the rich flavors of the dish. You can also serve it with a side of fresh salad to add crunch and freshness.

Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can swap tofu for other proteins. Chicken works great here. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces and cook it until it’s golden. Beef is also a tasty choice. Use thin strips for quick cooking. Shrimp adds a light touch. Just make sure they turn pink and opaque. Each option brings a new taste while keeping the dish healthy.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to change up the veggies. Zucchini or bell peppers add color and crunch. Cauliflower can replace broccoli for a different texture. Snow peas are a sweet alternative to sugar snap peas. You can also use bok choy for a crisp bite. Mix and match your favorites to make it your own.
Additional Flavor Profiles
Switching sauces can change the whole dish. Try adding a spicy chili sauce for heat. A sweet and sour sauce can give it a tangy twist. You can also mix in nuts for crunch. Cashews or peanuts add a nice bite. Experiment with these flavors to keep things exciting!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store your crispy sesame tofu stir fry in an airtight container. Make sure it is cool before sealing. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the flavors fresh and safe to eat. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use a skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to keep the tofu moist. Heat it for about five minutes, stirring gently. This method helps keep the tofu crispy. You can also use a microwave, but it may make the tofu less crunchy.
Freezing Guidelines
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Make sure to let it cool completely first. Portion it into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. It will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, swap the soy sauce for tamari. Tamari has a similar taste but is gluten-free. You can also check the cornstarch brand to ensure it’s gluten-free. For added flavor, consider using coconut aminos. This gives a nice sweet taste without gluten.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prep parts of this dish ahead of time. Press and cube the tofu a day before. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Chop the vegetables too. Keep them in separate containers. This way, you can stir-fry quickly when you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir Fry?
This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa. Both add a nice base to the meal. You can also serve it with a side of fresh salad. A light cucumber salad works great. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with some spring rolls.
This blog post covered making a delicious Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir Fry. You learned about key ingredients, the cooking steps, and how to achieve the perfect texture. I shared tips to enhance flavor and provided variations to fit your taste. Storing leftovers and reheating techniques also help keep your dish fresh.
In conclusion, enjoy this recipe any way you like. It’s simple, healthy, and satisfying. Experiment with your ingredients to make it your own!


