How to Make Sesame Crusted Tofu

By Jen Hoy

Updated 08/29/16

  • 01 of 09

    Crisp, Flavorful, Sesame Crusted Tofu

    Photo Courtesy of Timothy Hill Photography.
    Sesame tofu is a great year-round appetizer or entrée. Serve on salad greens for a first course or lunch; or add grains and steamed or braised greens for a heartier meal.
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  • 02 of 09

    Gather Ingredients and Prep the Tofu

    The Ingredients

    1 pound extra-firm organic tofu (1 package)

    Pinch of sea salt

    1/4 cup white sesame seeds

    1/4 cup black sesame seeds

    1 tablespoon untoasted sesame or other mild oil

    2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

    4 cups organic mesclun greens, or other baby lettuce

    Thinly sliced scallion greens (optional)

    Rinse tofu in cool water and slice in half lengthwise.
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  • 03 of 09

    Wrap Tofu in Paper Towels

    Wrap tofu slices in a double layer of paper towel to absorb excess water.
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  • 04 of 09

    Press Tofu

    Place wrapped tofu on a large plate, cover with a second plate, and let sit 15 minutes to drain out any excess water. It's important that the tofu is dry so the oil won't splatter when it's being cooked.
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  • 05 of 09

    Coat the Tofu with Sesame Seeds

    Unwrap the tofu, and sprinkle each slice with sea salt. Mix black and white sesame seeds together on a plate or in a flat bowl, and coat tofu thoroughly on both sides with the seeds. Any leftover seeds can be saved for another time or used for garnish.
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  • 06 of 09

    Pan Sear the Tofu

    Heat the oil in a heavy bottomed skillet over medium high heat. Sear the tofu blocks until crisp and golden brown, 3-4 minutes on each side.
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  • 07 of 09

    Drain Tofu on Paper Towels

    Remove the tofu from the skillet onto paper towels, to absorb excess oil. Allow tofu to cool slightly, until it can be comfortably handled.
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  • 08 of 09

    Cut Sesame Tofu for Serving

    When the tofu is cool enough to handle, place on cutting board and cut diagonally in triangles.
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  • 09 of 09

    Sesame Crusted Tofu Is Ready to Serve

    Your Sesame Tofu triangles are ready to plate on salad greens or grains and vegetables.