Description
A flavorful and healthy Sesame Tofu Broccoli Rice recipe featuring crispy pan-fried tofu, stir-fried broccoli and carrots, all coated in a savory-sweet sesame sauce served over tender jasmine rice. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and pressed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets (about 12 oz)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Rice
- 1 1/4 cups uncooked jasmine or long-grain rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 tsp salt
Garnish
- 2 spring onions, sliced
- Additional sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
- Prepare the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into ¾-inch cubes. Place the tofu cubes in a bowl and toss them with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of cornstarch over the tofu and gently mix until all pieces are evenly coated, which will help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Cook the Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer without crowding. Cook, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly, about 8 minutes, until the tofu is golden and crisp. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and sliced carrots. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant and aromatic.
- Prepare and Add Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with vegetables and stir to coat everything evenly.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to recombine and pour it into the skillet. Continuously stir for about 2 minutes as the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables thoroughly.
- Combine Tofu and Vegetables: Return the cooked tofu to the skillet and gently toss to combine it well with the thickened sauce and vegetables. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the mixture, stirring lightly.
- Serve: Spoon the cooked jasmine rice into serving bowls. Top with the sesame tofu and broccoli stir-fry. Garnish with sliced spring onions and additional sesame seeds as desired for extra flavor and crunch.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu before cooking is crucial to remove excess moisture and achieve a crispy texture.
- You can substitute maple syrup with honey or another preferred sweetener in the sauce.
- Use firm or extra-firm tofu to ensure the cubes hold their shape while cooking.
- Feel free to add other stir-fry vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
- If you want a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: sesame tofu, broccoli rice, vegetarian stir-fry, tofu recipe, healthy dinner, Asian tofu dish, sesame sauce, veggie stir-fry
