Crispy Sesame Tofu with Peanut Sauce
Pan-seared tofu glazed with a nutty peanut sauce, served over a bed of steamed bok choy. This asian-inspired quick meals (vegan) ready in about 45 minutes blends block (14 oz) firm tofu, soy sauce, sriracha into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 520 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sriracha
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 1 head bok choy
- 1 tbsp ginger
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Press 14 oz firm tofu between paper towels for 15 minutes, then cut into 1/2-inch cubes. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add tofu, and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sriracha, 1 tbsp maple syrup, and 1 tbsp sesame seeds. Set aside.
- Step 3: For the peanut sauce, blend 2 tbsp peanut butter, 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1 tbsp ginger, and 1 tbsp soy sauce until smooth. Adjust consistency with 1-2 tbsp water if needed.
- Step 4: Steam bok choy for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Serve tofu with a drizzle of peanut sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Crispy Sesame Tofu with Peanut Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 45 minutes (20 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Crispy Sesame Tofu with Peanut Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Crispy Sesame Tofu with Peanut Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Crispy Sesame Tofu with Peanut Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Crispy Sesame Tofu with Peanut Sauce vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
- ★★★★☆
Good flavors but the sauce was a bit thin. I'd reduce it longer.
- ★★★☆☆
Not bad. Would need significant modifications to make it a regular.
