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Sesame Apricot Tofu Bowl Recipe First Image

Crispy Tofu with Apricot Glaze


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  • Author: Chef John
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This delicious crispy tofu recipe is marinated in a sweet apricot glaze and served over fluffy rice, topped with fresh apricots and scallions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
  • 3 tbsp apricot jam (for marinade)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos (for marinade)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for marinade)
  • 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds (for toasting and garnish)
  • 2 cups white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable or sesame oil (for frying tofu)
  • 2 fresh apricots (sliced for serving)
  • 2 scallions (chopped green onions, for garnish)
  • 1 lemon or lime (for finishing, optional squeeze)

Instructions

  1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 2cm cubes. Place in a bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot jam, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes. Pour half of this marinade over the tofu, toss gently, and let sit for 20 minutes to absorb flavors.
  3. While the tofu marinates, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice in a rice cooker or pot with 2 cups water until fluffy, about 15 minutes, then let it rest for 5 minutes.
  4. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add sesame seeds and toast, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated tofu cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden brown on all sides, about 8 minutes.
  6. Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet with the tofu. Cook over high heat until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the tofu, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Slice the apricots into thin wedges. Add them to the skillet with the tofu during the last minute of cooking to warm through and release their juices.
  8. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then divide it among serving bowls. Top each with crispy tofu, warm apricots, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped scallions.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon or lime over each bowl for a bright finish, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the contrasting textures and flavors.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, add more chili flakes or incorporate diced chili peppers.
  • Leftover tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-fry
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg