Vegan Sticky Sesame Tofu Quick Air Fryer Recipe

Sticky Sesame Tofu

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?

Ingredients are the foundation of any recipe, and the sticky sesame tofu recipe is no exception. Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this mouth-watering dish:

  • 1 brick extra firm tofu, pressed
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sticky Sesame Sauce, you’ll need:

  • 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

Finally, for the topping, you’ll need:

  • sesame seeds

Make sure to press your extra firm tofu before cooking to remove any excess moisture. The cornstarch will help create a crispy texture when air fried, and the olive oil will add a little bit of richness.

The Sticky Sesame Sauce is what really makes this dish shine. The combination of soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and chili flakes creates a sweet and savory flavor profile that you won’t be able to resist. And don’t forget the sesame seeds on top for added texture and visual appeal.

Substitutions

Maple Syrup: I used maple syrup in this recipe which has amazing flavour! Although I love maple syrup and believe it is the healthier choice, it tastes even better with brown sugar. You can also substitute in agave. 

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.

Dipping Tofu

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.

Tofu Ready For Air Fryer

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.

Sticky Sesame sauce

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.

Sticky Sesame Tofu In Pan

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.

Sticky Sesame Tofu Recipe

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

How to prepare the tofu for this 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.

What tofu to use in the sticky sesame tofu recipe?

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.

Does tofu get crispy in an air fryer?

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

Is this sticky sesame tofu recipe gluten-free?

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.

How do you keep tofu from sticking to air fryer?

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 Recipe

Sticky Sesame Tofu Air Fryer

This mouth-watering sticky sesame tofu is the best way to transform your tofu into a delicious dish!
5 from 4 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main, Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

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

Maple Syrup:
I used maple syrup in this recipe which has amazing flavour! Although I love maple syrup and believe it is the healthier choice, it tastes even better with brown sugar. You can also substitute in agave. 
Air Fryer vs Oven Baked:
This crispy tofu takes only 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer and comes out so crispy! If you don’t have an air fryer it can easily be baked in the oven at 400 degrees for 30 minutes flipping halfway. Baking takes more than double the time, but still comes out beautifully! 
Pan fry or Deep fry:
If you want this to taste more like take-out, simply pan fry in oil, or deep fry until golden brown and crispy. 
How to serve:
This sticky sesame tofu can be served on its own as an appetizer or high protein vegan snack. It’s best served on a bed of sticky rice with your favourite steamed vegetable such as broccoli or bok choy. Top with a few diced green onions, and some bean sprouts to elevate this vegan dinner! 
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Conclusion:

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!

8 thoughts on “Vegan Sticky Sesame Tofu Quick Air Fryer Recipe

  1. Leanne J. says:

    5 stars
    YUM! Loved this recipe the sauce was really nice thank you for sharing!

  2. Jenna says:

    5 stars
    This was nice and easy and so tasty. The maple syrup was delicious loved how it was a little healthier of a sweetener.

  3. Rhonda says:

    5 stars
    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!

  4. Mackenzie says:

    5 stars
    Delicious and quick to make!

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