If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and family-friendly plant-based meal, you’re in the right place!
These Pan-Seared Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory, nutty flavors.
Even if you’re cooking for picky eaters, the crispy sesame crust and rich umami seasoning make these a hit.
Plus, they’re easy to make and packed with protein!
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) block of extra firm tofu
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup sesame seeds (white and black mixed)
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or any neutral oil)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping
Pro Tips
- Press the tofu well! Removing excess water helps it absorb the marinade and get extra crispy.
- Use a mix of white and black sesame seeds. It adds a beautiful contrast and a nuttier flavor.
- Panko makes it crispier. Regular breadcrumbs work, but panko gives the best crunch.
- Want it extra crispy? Double dip in the egg and sesame coating.
- For kids, serve with a fun dipping sauce! Try sweet chili sauce or a soy-honey mix.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Paper towels or a tofu press
- Shallow bowls for dredging
- Small whisk or fork
- Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet
- Tongs or a spatula
Substitutions & Variations
- Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free panko and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- No egg? Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).
- Want more flavor? Add a teaspoon of sriracha to the marinade.
- Air Fryer Option? Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Marinate the tofu ahead of time. Letting it soak for a few hours (or overnight) makes it more flavorful.
- Press tofu in advance. Do this in the morning and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.
How to Make Pan-Seared Sesame Crusted Tofu Steaks
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Place the tofu block on a plate lined with paper towels. Cover with more paper towels and place a heavy pan or tofu press on top. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to remove excess water.
Step 2: Slice and Marinate
Cut the pressed tofu into four thick rectangular steaks. In a shallow bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Place the tofu pieces in the marinade and let them sit for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 3: Set Up the Coating Stations
In one shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and sesame seeds. In another, whisk the egg with 2 tablespoons of water. Place cornstarch in a third bowl.
Step 4: Coat the Tofu
Dredge each tofu piece in cornstarch, dip in the egg, then press into the sesame-panko mixture until fully coated.
Step 5: Sear the Tofu
Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the coated tofu steaks in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer tofu steaks to a plate, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve with a side of sweet chili sauce or soy sauce.
Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet for a few minutes to keep the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crust soggy.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as tofu changes texture when frozen.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! A simple, crispy, and flavorful tofu recipe the whole family will love. Give it a try, and let me know how it turned out in the comments! 😊