Save A vibrant, plant-based dinner featuring irresistibly crispy tofu and roasted broccoli, tossed in a flavorful sesame sauce. Perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight meal.
This recipe quickly became a favorite for busy weeknights when I needed something healthy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Tofu & Marinade: 400 g (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cut into 2 cm (¾-inch) cubes, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Broccoli: 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets (about 500 g / 1 lb), 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp sea salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
- Sesame Sauce: 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1½ tbsp maple syrup or honey, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp tahini or peanut butter, 1 clove garlic, finely minced, 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated, 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- Garnish: 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, 2 spring onions, thinly sliced, cooked rice or quinoa, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, toss tofu cubes with soy sauce and sesame oil. Sprinkle cornstarch over tofu and toss until evenly coated.
- Step 3:
- Spread tofu cubes on half of the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4:
- In another bowl, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the other half of the baking sheet.
- Step 5:
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping tofu and stirring broccoli halfway, until tofu is golden and crispy and broccoli is tender and slightly charred.
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile, whisk together all sesame sauce ingredients except the cornstarch slurry in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Step 7:
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 1 to 2 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Step 8:
- Once tofu and broccoli are done, transfer to a large bowl. Pour sesame sauce over and toss to coat.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and spring onions. Add rice or quinoa if desired.
Save My family loves how this meal combines flavors and textures, making dinner both nutritious and exciting every time we enjoy it together.
Variations
Swap broccoli for cauliflower or add bell peppers for a different vegetable twist. You can also adjust sweetness by substituting honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain tofu crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
Save With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, this sesame tofu and broccoli dinner is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve crispy tofu texture?
Press tofu to remove excess moisture, toss cubes in oil and cornstarch, then bake at high heat flipping halfway for even crispness.
- → Can the broccoli be substituted?
Yes, cauliflower or bell peppers can be roasted similarly to add variety and texture.
- → What adds flavor to the sesame sauce?
The balance of soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, tahini, garlic, and fresh ginger creates a rich, layered sesame flavor.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, all ingredients used are plant-based, making it vegan and dairy-free friendly.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve over jasmine or brown rice, or quinoa to complement the savory flavors and add heartiness.