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Crispy Sesame Tofu Bowl Recipe Easy Homemade with Peanut Sauce Drizzle

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A quick and easy crispy sesame tofu bowl topped with a creamy peanut sauce drizzle, perfect for a satisfying meatless meal with bold flavors and delightful textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400 g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/3 cup natural peanut butter (creamy)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Cooked jasmine rice or quinoa (about 2 cups cooked)
  • Fresh veggies: shredded carrots, cucumber slices, chopped scallions
  • Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Press and prepare the tofu by draining and pressing it for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Marinate tofu cubes in a bowl with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  3. Mix cornstarch, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Roll tofu cubes in the mixture until fully coated.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp, about 12-15 minutes total.
  5. While tofu cooks, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, and warm water in a small bowl. Adjust water to desired drizzle consistency.
  6. Assemble the bowl by spooning cooked jasmine rice or quinoa into bowls. Arrange crispy tofu on top and add shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and chopped scallions.
  7. Drizzle the creamy peanut sauce generously over the bowl. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.

Notes

Press tofu thoroughly for best crispiness. Do not overcrowd the pan when frying tofu. Reheat tofu in a skillet to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving. Peanut sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Adjust water in peanut sauce slowly to avoid thinning it too much.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy tofu, sesame tofu, peanut sauce, vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, easy dinner, tofu bowl, plant-based, quick meal