Discovering the Perfect Weeknight Meal
My Favorite isBaked Teriyaki Tofu Delight and It was one of those evenings when I wanted something quick but didn’t want to compromise on flavor or health. I had a block of extra-firm baked teriyaki tofu delight in the fridge and a craving for something savory. My mind raced through various ideas, but nothing seemed quite right. Then, it hit me—teriyaki tofu! I could imagine the crispy tofu pieces coated in a glossy teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice with roasted broccoli on the side. It was the perfect meal to brighten up a busy weekday.
Preparing the Ingredients
I started by pressing the tofu. I wrapped the blocks in paper towels and placed a heavy pan on top. While it pressed, I preheated the oven to 400°F. I lined my baking sheets with parchment paper and spread out the broccoli florets. A quick spray of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper gave them a simple, tasty seasoning. With the tofu now pressed and drained, I cut it into cubes and tossed it in a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. The tofu was ready to get crispy in the oven.
Cooking the Teriyaki Sauce
As the tofu and broccoli baked, I turned my attention to the teriyaki sauce. In a skillet, I combined reduced-sodium soy sauce, water, maple syrup, light brown sugar, rice vinegar, and a splash of toasted sesame oil. Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic added a fragrant kick. I brought the mixture to a simmer, letting the flavors meld together. To thicken the sauce, I mixed cornstarch with water and stirred it into the simmering sauce. The sauce quickly turned glossy and thick—just how I like it.
Bringing It All Together
When the tofu was golden and the broccoli had crispy edges, I added the tofu to the skillet with the teriyaki sauce. A gentle stir coated each piece with that delicious, glossy sauce. I served the tofu over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, with the roasted broccoli on the side. Garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions, it looked and smelled fantastic. As I took the first bite, I knew I’d found my new favorite weeknight meal—quick, healthy, and full of flavor.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Baked Teriyaki Tofu Delight
- Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps the tofu become crispy when baked. If you have a tofu press, use it for best results.
- Tossing the tofu cubes in cornstarch ensures a crispy texture. If you’re sensitive to gluten, use arrowroot powder instead.
- For extra crispiness, bake the tofu on a wire rack set over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the tofu, making it crispier.
- If the sauce gets too thick after simmering, simply add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
- Don’t skip the sesame seeds and green onions—they add a wonderful crunch and fresh flavor that enhance the overall dish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container. The tofu may lose some crispiness, but reheating it in an oven can help restore some of the texture.
- Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrients.
FAQ-Baked Teriyaki Tofu Delight
Can I use a different type of tofu?
You can use firm tofu if extra-firm is not available, but it may not be as crispy. Press it well to remove excess moisture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tofu and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine just before serving.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
Agave nectar or honey can be used as a substitute for maple syrup. For a lower glycemic option, try using a sugar-free sweetener.