Pan Fried Sesame Tofu is a delightful dish that transforms ordinary tofu into a crispy, flavorful delight. This recipe combines perfectly pan-fried tofu with tender broccoli, making it a favorite for weeknight meals. With its nutty sesame flavor and satisfying crunch, this dish is not only indulgent but also healthy and high in plant protein. Whether you’re a tofu lover or a skeptic, this easy recipe will make you a fan!
Why You’ll Love This Pan Fried Sesame Tofu
This recipe is packed with several benefits:
- High in protein, making it a great choice for a filling meal.
- Vegan-friendly, catering to plant-based diets.
- Quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables.
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
With these features, you’ll see why this easy pan fried sesame tofu recipe is a hit! It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that creates a delicious sesame tofu stir fry.
Ingredients for Pan Fried Sesame Tofu
Gather these items:
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: scallions for garnish
These ingredients create a flavorful fried tofu with sesame that is both satisfying and nourishing.
How to Make Pan Fried Sesame Tofu Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Toss tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add tofu and cook until all sides are golden and crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Step 3: Add remaining oil to the pan and sauté broccoli for 4–5 minutes until just tender.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger. Pour into the pan with broccoli and return tofu to the pan.
- Step 5: Toss everything to coat evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Step 6: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and optional scallions before serving.
This method ensures you learn how to pan fry tofu with sesame for the best results.
Pro Tips for the Best Pan Fried Sesame Tofu
Keep these in mind:
- This dish is high in plant protein.
- Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- For added crunch, try a sesame crusted pan fried tofu variation!
- Ensure your tofu is well-pressed to eliminate excess moisture, leading to a better fry.
Best Ways to Serve Pan Fried Sesame Tofu
Consider these serving ideas:
- Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Pair with noodles for a delicious sesame oil tofu recipe.
- Top with fresh scallions for added flavor and presentation.
These pairings enhance the overall experience of this flavorful pan fried tofu dish.

How to Store and Reheat Pan Fried Sesame Tofu
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a non-stick pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. This is especially useful for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pan Fried Sesame Tofu
What’s the secret to perfect Pan Fried Sesame Tofu?
The secret lies in properly pressing the tofu and ensuring it’s coated evenly with cornstarch. This guarantees a crispy texture when frying, making it a high protein pan fried tofu option everyone will love.
Can I make Pan Fried Sesame Tofu ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tofu in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you are ready to eat for a quick and satisfying meal.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pan Fried Sesame Tofu?
Make sure to use extra-firm tofu and press it well. If the tofu is too watery, it won’t crisp up properly. Follow the steps closely for the best results.
Variations of Pan Fried Sesame Tofu You Can Try
Here are some variations to consider:
- Add different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for a colorful mix.
- Incorporate a spicy sauce for an extra kick.
- Try a simple sesame tofu preparation with less sauce for a lighter dish.
These variations highlight the versatility of this vegan pan fried sesame tofu recipe!
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making ginger lime pork for a flavorful twist. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, consider creamy potato soup as a side dish!
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Pan Fried Sesame Tofu: 5 Steps to Flavorful Perfection
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Crispy golden tofu meets tender broccoli in this flavor-loaded pan-fried sesame dish.
Ingredients
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Toss tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add tofu and cook until all sides are golden and crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Add remaining oil to the pan and sauté broccoli for 4–5 minutes until just tender.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger. Pour into the pan with broccoli and return tofu to the pan.
- Toss everything to coat evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and optional scallions before serving.
Notes
- This dish is high in plant protein.
- Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Pan Fried Sesame Tofu, Tofu Recipe, Vegan Tofu Dish









