why make this recipe
Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks with Teriyaki Sauce is a delicious dish that brings together the nutty flavors of sesame with the sweet and savory notes of teriyaki sauce. It’s a fantastic option for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch in taste and texture. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these tofu steaks are sure to impress your family and friends.
how to make Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks with Teriyaki Sauce
Ingredients:
- 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)
- 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
- 2 tbsp flour, plain/all-purpose
- 1 egg, lightly whisked
- 4 tbsp white sesame seeds (Note 2) (yes, you really need 4 tbsp!)
- 4 tbsp black sesame seeds (Note 2)
- 2 tbsp canola/vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced 1mm thick (optional, Note 2)
- 1 green onion, finely sliced (for garnish)
- 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
Directions:
Sesame coating:
- Season tofu: Pat tofu dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Prepare crust coating: Place flour, egg, and sesame in separate bowls (medium shallow bowls or tupperware are best).
- Sesame crust: Press tofu into flour, shake off excess. Dip in egg, then let excess drip off before coating in sesame seeds, pressing to adhere all over. Repeat with remaining tofu.
Cooking:
- Crispy garlic: Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Cook tofu: Turn heat up to medium-high. Place tofu in the skillet and cook for 1 1/2 minutes until the sesame smells nutty and becomes crisp. Turn carefully and cook the other side for 1 1/2 minutes. Then use tongs to prop the tofu steaks up on their sides to sear the edges until crisp—about 30 seconds each side should do it.
- Drain: Remove tofu to a paper towel lined plate.
- Teriyaki Sauce: Lower heat to medium, then add Teriyaki Sauce ingredients. Simmer for 1 minute until it reduces to a syrupy consistency, then remove skillet from stove.
- Serve: Place tofu steak on plate. Spoon over Teriyaki Sauce (it clings to sesame, don’t worry, crust stays crispy). Sprinkle with garlic and green onion. Devour, then declare, "I LOVE TOFU!!"
how to serve Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks with Teriyaki Sauce
Serve the Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks hot, drizzled with teriyaki sauce. Pair them with steamed rice or a side of vegetables for a complete meal. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top for a fresh touch.
how to store Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks with Teriyaki Sauce
To store leftovers, let the tofu cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best taste and texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat rather than in the microwave.
tips to make Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks with Teriyaki Sauce
- Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture. This helps it get crispy.
- Experiment with different types of sauce if you like! You can try adding a bit of honey for sweetness or chili flakes for spice.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce and flour.
variation
You can also serve these tofu steaks in a sandwich or wrap with fresh vegetables and additional sauce for a tasty lunch option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the egg with a plant-based egg replacer or use cornstarch mixed with water to bind the sesame coating.
2. What can I use if I don’t have mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can use a mixture of sugar and rice vinegar for a similar sweetness and tang.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce or sprinkle some spicy chili powder on the tofu before cooking for an extra kick!
Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks with Teriyaki Sauce
Ingredients
For the Tofu Steaks
- 4 pieces extra firm or hard tofu, cut into 10 x 5 x 1.5cm slices (approx. 100g / 3.5oz each)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp flour, plain/all-purpose
- 1 large egg, lightly whisked
- 4 tbsp white sesame seeds (Note: you really need 4 tbsp!)
- 4 tbsp black sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp canola/vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced 1mm thick (optional)
- 1 piece green onion, finely sliced (for garnish)
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce, preferably Japanese all-purpose (or light soy sauce)
- 2 tbsp mirin, preferably Japanese
- 2 tbsp cooking sake, preferably Japanese
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
Sesame Coating
- Pat tofu dry with paper towels and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place flour, egg, and sesame seeds in separate medium shallow bowls.
- Press tofu into the flour, shake off excess, dip in egg, let excess drip off, and coat in sesame seeds, pressing to adhere all over. Repeat with remaining tofu.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Increase heat to medium-high. Place tofu in the skillet and cook for 1 1/2 minutes until the sesame smells nutty and becomes crisp. Turn carefully and cook the other side for another 1 1/2 minutes.
- Use tongs to prop the tofu steaks on their sides to sear the edges until crisp—about 30 seconds each side.
- Remove tofu to a paper towel lined plate.
- Lower heat to medium, add Teriyaki Sauce ingredients and simmer for 1 minute until it reduces to a syrupy consistency, then remove skillet from stove.
- Place the tofu steak on a plate. Spoon over teriyaki sauce, sprinkle with crispy garlic and green onion. Serve hot.