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Vegan

Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger-Garlic Broccoli

Golden cubes of tofu shattered in a glossy, savoury-sweet sesame glaze tumbled with charred broccoli : punchy umami with a satisfying crunch.

35 min4 servingsIntermediateVegan

Ingredients

  • 400 g extra-firm tofu
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
  • 3 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 4 cup broccoli florets
  • 4 unit garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 3 unit green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. 1

    Press 1 block (400 g) extra-firm tofu between paper towels under a heavy pan for 15 minutes, then cube into 3/4-inch pieces.

  2. 2

    Toss tofu with 2 tbsp cornstarch and 1/2 tsp salt until each cube is evenly dusted.

  3. 3

    Heat 3 tbsp sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers without smoking. Sear tofu in a single layer for 8-10 minutes, turning every 2 minutes, until deeply golden on all sides. Transfer to a plate.

  4. 4

    In the same pan, add 4 cups broccoli florets and 2 tbsp water; cover and steam-sear for 3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp with charred spots.

  5. 5

    Push broccoli aside; add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated ginger to the empty side. Sizzle 30 seconds until fragrant.

  6. 6

    Whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp chili flakes, and 1 tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 1/3 cup water.

  7. 7

    Pour the sauce into the pan and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until it reduces to a glossy glaze that coats the back of a spoon.

  8. 8

    Return tofu to the pan and toss gently for 30 seconds to coat without breaking the crust.

  9. 9

    Finish with 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 3 sliced green onions.

Chef's tip

Don't move the tofu for the first 3 minutes of searing : a golden crust needs uninterrupted contact with the pan, and premature flipping tears the delicate starch coating right off.

Suggested pairing

Pile over jasmine rice or soba noodles with a chilled cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar.

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