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Vegan

Crispy Sesame Tofu Stir-Fry with Ginger-Garlic Broccoli

Golden cornstarch-crusted tofu tossed in a glossy soy-maple glaze with crisp-tender broccoli and toasted sesame : bold, umami and irresistibly saucy.

35 min4 servingsEasyVegan

Ingredients

  • 400 g extra-firm tofu
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 3 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 4 cup broccoli florets
  • 4 unit garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 0,25 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp chili paste
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 3 unit green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. 1

    Press 1 block (400 g) extra-firm tofu between clean towels under a heavy pan for 15 minutes, then cube into ¾-inch pieces.

  2. 2

    Toss the tofu with 2 tbsp cornstarch and ½ tsp salt until every cube is evenly coated and dry to the touch.

  3. 3

    Heat 3 tbsp sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Sear the tofu 8-10 minutes, turning every 2 minutes, until deeply golden and crisp on all sides. Remove to a plate.

  4. 4

    In the same pan, add 4 cups broccoli florets and ¼ cup water; cover and steam 3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.

  5. 5

    Uncover, push broccoli aside and add 4 minced garlic cloves plus 1 tbsp grated ginger to the bare spot. Sizzle 45 seconds until fragrant.

  6. 6

    Whisk together ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp chili paste and 1 tsp cornstarch dissolved in 3 tbsp water.

  7. 7

    Pour the sauce into the pan and toss with the broccoli; simmer 1-2 minutes until glossy and thick enough to coat a spoon.

  8. 8

    Return the crispy tofu to the pan and toss gently for 30 seconds just to glaze : don't over-stir or you'll lose the crunch.

  9. 9

    Finish with 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds and 3 sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

Chef's tip

The secret to shatteringly crisp tofu is bone-dry cubes plus a thin cornstarch shell : resist the urge to stir while searing so each face develops a real crust before flipping.

Suggested pairing

Pile over steamed jasmine rice with a chilled crisp pilsner or cold jasmine iced tea to balance the heat.

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