Transform boring tofu into a flavorful and irresistible dish with this Sticky Sesame Tofu Air Fryer Recipe. The secret to perfectly crispy and savory tofu lies in the power of the air fryer. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cook time, you’ll have a delicious and healthy vegan protein option ready in no time.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this sticky sesame tofu recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. If you’re interested in more plant-based air-fryer recipes, feel free to explore my complete Vegan Air Fryer Recipes Collection here.
Ingredients & Substitutions: What’s In This Vegan Sticky Sesame Tofu Recipe?
Tofu:
The base of this sticky sesame tofu recipe is a block of extra firm tofu, which holds its shape well during cooking and results in crispy edges. For best results, press the tofu using paper towels and a heavy object or a tofu press to remove excess moisture. This ensures that the tofu becomes crispy when cooked. If you don’t have extra firm tofu, firm tofu can also be used, but it may need a longer pressing time. Different types of tofu can be used such as firm tofu or even medium firm tofu. However, keep in mind medium firm tofu is more delicate and you will have to handle it carefully.
Cornstarch:
Coating the tofu in cornstarch helps create a golden brown and crispy exterior. If cornstarch is unavailable, arrowroot starch or corn flour can be used as a substitute.
Olive Oil:
Rubbing each piece of tofu with a very thin layer of olive oil helps achieve that crispy texture. You can also use vegetable oil or a tablespoon of sesame oil for added flavor.
Sticky Sesame Sauce:
The sauce ingredients include soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option), pure maple syrup or brown sugar (or even coconut sugar for a different sweetness), minced fresh garlic, a dash of sesame oil, and optional hot chili flakes or cayenne powder for some heat. A cornstarch slurry made from cornstarch and water is used to thicken the sauce. If you prefer a different flavor profile, rice vinegar can be added for a tangy kick, or sriracha sauce can be included for more spice.
Fresh Ginger: Add 1 tbsp of minced fresh ginger if desired. The ginger and garlic flavors go so well together!
Sesame Seeds:
Sesame seeds are sprinkled on top for a nutty flavor and added texture. Extra sesame seeds can be used for garnish.
Cooking Instructions
- Preparing the Tofu: Start by cutting the block of tofu into 10 equally sized squares or triangles. Rub each piece with a thin layer of olive oil and coat with cornstarch. This helps achieve that coveted crispy tofu texture. My favourite way to prepare tofu is too just rip it into bite-sized cubes and air fry it on days when I have less time.
- Air Frying: Place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer at 390 degrees for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, for oven-baked tofu, bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Making the Sauce: While the tofu cooks, prepare the sticky sesame sauce. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, water, soy sauce, maple syrup, minced garlic, sesame oil, hot chili flakes, and chili powder. Make sure to keep stirring or whisking so it doesn’t get stuck to the bottom of the pan. Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan over medium-high heat and cook for 2-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combining Tofu and Sauce: Add the crispy tofu to a hot pan with the sauce and toss to coat each piece thoroughly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Deep Frying Tofu
Deep frying tofu is a delicious way to achieve ultra-crispy sesame tofu that rivals the texture of sesame chicken from Chinese restaurants. Here’s a complete guide on how to deep fry tofu for this sticky sesame garlic tofu recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 brick extra firm tofu, pressed
- 3 tbsp corn starch
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil (for coating tofu)
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tofu: Press tofu ahead of time for best results. Wrap the block of tofu in a tea towel and place a heavy object on top to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Cut the tofu into 2-3 cm cubes.
- Coat the Tofu: Place the cubed tofu in a large bowl. Add a little water and a tablespoon of sesame oil (or vegetable oil) and toss to coat. In a separate bowl, add 3 tbsp of cornstarch. Toss each tofu cube in the cornstarch to coat evenly. This helps create a golden brown crust when fried.
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a large frying pan or skillet to submerge the tofu cubes. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of tofu into the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is hot enough.
- Deep Fry the Tofu: Carefully add the coated tofu cubes to the hot oil in a single layer. Fry tofu in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the tofu from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Transfer the crispy tofu to a large bowl.
- Combine with Sauce: Prepare the sticky sesame sauce as per the original recipe. In a large pan or skillet, heat the sauce until it thickens. Add the fried tofu to the pan and toss to coat each piece thoroughly. Ensure the sauce covers every piece of tofu and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately. Pair with your favorite rice recipe, such as jasmine rice, for a complete and delicious meal.
Tips:
- Consistency: Ensure the oil temperature is consistent to avoid soggy tofu. Maintaining medium-high heat is crucial for a perfect fry.
- Storage: Leftover sesame tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in a large skillet or oven to retain the crispy texture.
This deep-fried tofu method is a fantastic addition to your collection of new recipes, offering a delicious way to enjoy tofu in different ways. Whether you’re a tofu lover or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Don’t forget to share your version on TikTok and other platforms, and leave a star rating on the recipe card to let others know how much flavor this dish brings to your table. Enjoy this crispy sesame tofu that’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and experience the delightful textures and flavors that rival the best peanut tofu or sesame chicken from your favorite Chinese restaurant!
Pairing Ideas for Sticky Sesame Tofu
This sticky sesame tofu recipe is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy tofu, offering crispy edges and a flavorful, savory sesame sauce. Whether you’re a tofu lover or new to tofu dishes, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a favorite.
Pair it with rice, vegetables, or noodles for a complete, nutritious meal. One of the best way to make vegan, delicious meals is to pair tofu with your favourite sides. Here are a few of my favourite options, but feel free to mix it up and make it your own!
Rice:
Serve the sticky sesame tofu on a bed of white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Jasmine rice is a particularly fragrant choice that complements the savory sesame sauce beautifully.
Vegetables:
Pair the tofu with your favorite steamed or stir-fried vegetables. Bok choy, broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas are excellent options that add color and nutrition to the meal.
Salad:
A fresh, crisp salad with spring onions, green onions, and a light sesame or soy dressing can balance the rich flavors of the sticky tofu.
Noodles:
For a different texture, serve the tofu over a bed of soba noodles or rice noodles. These can be tossed in the same sticky sauce or a complementary garlic and ginger sauce.
Buns or Wraps:
Use the tofu as a filling for steamed bao buns or lettuce wraps, adding fresh vegetables and a drizzle of the delicious sauce for a handheld treat.
Sides:
Enhance your meal with sides like edamame, miso soup, or a tangy cucumber salad. These side dishes can provide additional textures and flavors, making your meal more satisfying.
Storage:
Leftover sesame tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to regain some of the crispy texture.
Helpful Tools
Air Fryer
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that circulates hot air around food to cook it. This cooking method allows for food to be cooked with little to no oil, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior. It’s a great way to make tofu because it gives it a crispy texture without the need for deep-frying.
Tofu Press
A tofu press is a handy tool for pressing the excess water out of the tofu before cooking. Pressing the tofu allows it to better absorb the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Mixing Bowl
A mixing bowl is needed to mix the cornstarch with the tofu before air frying it, and also to mix the sticky sesame sauce.
Pan
A pan is needed to cook the sticky sesame sauce on the stove.
Spatula
A spatula is needed to flip the tofu while it’s cooking in the air fryer, and also to toss the tofu in the sticky sesame sauce.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurately measuring the ingredients for the sauce is important to achieve the right balance of flavors. Using measuring cups and spoons ensures that you get the recipe just right.
Having these essential cooking tools and equipment on hand will make preparing this sticky sesame tofu recipe a breeze.
How To Make This Air Fryer Sticky Sesame Tofu Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these simple instructions to make the perfect Sticky Sesame Tofu:
Begin by cutting your extra firm tofu into 10 equally sized squares or triangles.
Rub each piece of tofu with a very thin layer of olive oil. This will help the cornstarch adhere better to the tofu.
Place 3 tbsp of cornstarch in a bowl, and lightly coat each piece with cornstarch. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees. Once heated, place the tofu pieces in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake the tofu in the oven at 400 degrees for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Sauce
While the tofu is cooking, it’s time to prepare the Sticky Sesame Sauce. In a bowl, mix together 1 tbsp of cornstarch, 1/4 cup of water, 3 tbsp of soy sauce or tamari, 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup (or 3 tbsp of brown sugar), 2 large cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 tsp of sesame oil, 1 tsp of hot chili flakes (optional), and a dash of hot chili powder or cayenne powder. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Once the tofu is cooked, set it aside and heat a pan over medium heat. Add the Sticky Sesame Sauce mixture to the pan and cook for 2-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid any burning.
Add the cooked tofu to the pan with the sauce and toss to coat each piece thoroughly. Make sure each piece is fully coated with the sauce.
Sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds on top of the tofu.
Serve the Sticky Sesame Tofu as is, or on a bed of jasmine rice with your favorite steamed vegetables. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this amazing dish!
Tips And Tricks For This Vegan Sticky Sesame Recipe
- Properly press the tofu to remove excess water and achieve the perfect texture.
- Lightly coat the tofu with oil to prevent sticking in the air fryer.
- Keep a watchful eye on the tofu while cooking in the air fryer to avoid burning.
- While preparing the sauce, be careful not to overcook it. If the sauce becomes too thick, add water to loosen.
- Cut the tofu into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
FAQ: Sticky Sesame Tofu Recipe
To prepare the tofu, drain and press it to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes or rectangles, lightly oil each piece, and dust with cornstarch. This will create a crispy exterior on the tofu while using minimal oil.
Extra-firm tofu is the best option for this recipe. Its meaty texture holds up well in the air fryer and can absorb the marinade perfectly, resulting in a crispy exterior and a savory interior. When choosing tofu for a recipe, consider the texture and how it will hold up in the cooking process.
Yes, tofu can get crispy in an air fryer. Just make sure to press the tofu before cooking it to remove excess moisture, and cook it for the appropriate amount of time to achieve the desired level of crispiness
Yes, it is gluten-free. We have substituted soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and used cornstarch to achieve the perfect sticky texture. This recipe is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet, who still want to enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic dish.
To prevent tofu from sticking to the air fryer, make sure to spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil before placing the tofu in the basket. You can also line the basket with parchment paper or use a non-stick air fryer basket.
Sticky Sesame Tofu Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 brick extra firm tofu, pressed
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Sticky Sesame Sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (or 3 tbsp brown sugar)
- 2 large cloves minced garlic
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp hot chili flakes (optional)
- dash hot chili powder or cayenne powder
Topping
- sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cut tofu into 10 equally sized squares or triangles.
- Rub each piece of tofu with a very thin layer of olive oil.
- Place 3 tbsp of cornstarch in a bowl, and lightly coat each piece with corstarch.
- Air fry the tofu at 390 degrees for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. (For the oven baked version: bake at 400 degrees for 30 mins flipping halfway).
- While the tofu is cooking, prepare the sticky sesame sauce.
- Mix all sauce ingredients together in a bowl and mix well to combine.
- Add the sauce mixture into a pan on medium heat, and cook for 2-5 minutes or until it thickens.
- Add the cook tofu into the sauce and toss to coat each piece thoroughly. Sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds on top.
- Serve as is, or on a bed of jasmine rice with your favourite steamed vegetables. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Sticky Sesame Tofu
In conclusion, the secret to making the perfect sticky sesame tofu lies in the air fryer method. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a crispy exterior and a flavorful, savory interior that will have you coming back for more. Properly pressing the tofu to remove excess water and lightly coating it with oil will ensure it doesn’t stick to the air fryer.
For those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe can easily be adapted by using gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free ingredients. Meal prepping is also a breeze with this recipe, making it perfect for busy weekdays or for meal planning. So, next time you’re craving something delicious and healthy, give this sticky sesame tofu recipe a try!
YUM! Loved this recipe the sauce was really nice thank you for sharing!
You’re welcome so happy you liked this recipe, thank you for trying it out!
This was nice and easy and so tasty. The maple syrup was delicious loved how it was a little healthier of a sweetener.
Thanks so much Jenna, we love maple syrup here at Essy Cooks!
I just got an air fryer so I have been looking for more airfryer recipes with tofu and this was delicious! I’m going to try some more from your airfryer section!
Thanks so much Rhonda, I will be releasing more Vegan air fryer recipes soon here, you can can view them here!
Delicious and quick to make!
Thanks Mackenzie!