Sesame Tofu Bowl

The sesame tofu bowl is a vibrant and nutritious meal that combines the subtle flavors of tofu with the nutty essence of sesame. This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fresh vegetables. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious entree and its accompanying sides.

The Recipe:

Sesame Tofu

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess water.
2. Cut tofu into cubes.
3. Mix sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
4. Marinate tofu in the mixture for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Arrange tofu on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Detailed Preparation:

1. To achieve the best texture, start by pressing your tofu.
2. Place it between paper towels and weigh it down with a heavy object for about 30 minutes. This removes excess moisture, allowing the tofu to absorb more flavor and achieve a crispier exterior when baked.
3. When marinating, ensure each piece is well-coated.
4. For added flavor, you can reserve some marinade to brush on the tofu during baking.
5. Keep a close eye on the tofu while it’s in the oven – you want it golden and crispy, not burnt.

Variations:

1. To create a pan-fried version instead of baking, pan-fry the marinated tofu for a quicker cooking time.
2. For a spicy twist, add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
3. To make a teriyaki style, replace some of the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor.

Time-saving tips:

• Prepare the marinade and press the tofu the night before.
• Use pre-pressed tofu to skip the pressing step.
• Make a larger batch and use leftovers for salads or sandwiches.

The Side Dishes:

Steamed Edamame:

• Bring a pot of salted water to boil.
• Add edamame pods and cook for 5 minutes.
• Drain and season with sea salt.

Soba Noodles with Scallions:

• Cook soba noodles according to package instructions.
• Rinse under cold water and drain.
• Toss with sesame oil, soy sauce, and chopped scallions.

Mango Chunks:

• Select a ripe mango.
• Peel and cut into bite-sized chunks.
• For added flavor, sprinkle with lime juice and a pinch of chili powder.

Equipment & Ingredients:

To make your very own vibrant sesame tofu bowl, you may consider purchasing the following items on Amazon:

Equipment:

• Tofu Press
• Bento Box
• Bamboo Steamer
• Sharp Chef’s Knife
• Silicone Baking Mat

Ingredients:

• Sesame Oil
• Organic Firm Tofu
• Soba Noodles
• Edamame
• Toasted Sesame Seeds

By assembling these ingredients and tools, you’ll be well-equipped to create this delicious and nutritious sesame tofu bowl with its complementary sides. This meal offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner.