As the season of lights and celebration approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the delicious dishes that bring family and friends together around the table. This year, I’m excited to celebrate Hanukkah with a delightful twist: a Crispy Sesame Tofu & Broccoli dinner that’s not only vegetarian but also bursting with flavor and quick to prepare. Imagine the satisfying crunch of golden, oven-baked tofu, paired with vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce that dances on your palate.
With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is a perfect choice for those weeknight dinners when you want to enjoy something wholesome and nourishing without sacrificing taste or longevity in the kitchen. It’s a meal that transforms everyday ingredients into a fragrant celebration, providing a comforting alternative to your regular takeout. Join me as we dive into this recipe and create memorable moments filled with warmth, laughter, and, of course, delicious food!
Why Celebrate Hanukkah with Sesame Tofu & Broccoli?
Elevated Taste: The vibrant flavors of sesame tofu meld beautifully with the crunchy broccoli, creating a dish that bursts with excitement in every bite.
Quick & Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits seamlessly into even the busiest schedules, allowing you to whip up a fulfilling meal without hassle.
Vegetarian Delight: Perfectly suited for veggie lovers, this dish shines as a satisfying Hanukkah option that everyone can enjoy.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, this colorful meal will impress your family and friends, making it a staple for your celebrations.
Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with nutrients and low on unhealthy additives, you can indulge without compromise, ensuring your festive season is as health-conscious as it is delicious!
Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Ingredients
For the Tofu
• Extra-firm tofu – Provides the ideal meaty texture for baking; use only extra-firm for best results.
• Cornstarch – Helps achieve a crispy coating on tofu; you can mix it with other starches for different textures.
For the Broccoli
• Small heads of broccoli – Contributes vibrant color and crunch; fresh or frozen can be used just avoid overcooking to maintain crispness.
• Scallions – Adds oniony freshness and color; can substitute with green onions if needed.
For the Sauce
• Low-sodium vegetable broth – Forms the sauce’s base, adding moisture; chicken broth may work for non-vegetarians.
• Reduced-sodium soy sauce – Provides umami flavor; a less salty version is used, and tamari can serve as a gluten-free alternative.
• Pure maple syrup – Adds subtle sweetness to balance flavors; honey or agave syrup can be substituted.
• Chili crisp – Provides a spicy kick and crunchy texture; adjust according to heat preference.
• Unseasoned rice vinegar – Gives acidity to brighten the dish; apple cider vinegar can be a substitute.
• Toasted sesame oil – Adds nuttiness and depth of flavor; use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
For Cooking
• Neutral oil – Essential for cooking, use canola or grapeseed oil; avoid extra virgin olive oil due to its low smoking point.
• Kosher salt – Enhances all flavors; use less if using sauces that are already salty.
Garnish & Serving
• Toasted sesame seeds – A delightful garnish that complements the dish; sprinkle generously for added texture.
• Steamed white rice – Serves as a base for the meal; this is optional but recommended for a complete Sesame Tofu & Broccoli dinner celebration.
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful meal that celebrates Hanukkah with love and culinary joy!
How to Make Sesame Tofu & Broccoli
- Prep Tofu: Press excess moisture out of the extra-firm tofu by wrapping it in a clean towel and placing a weighted object on top. Allow it to press for about 30-45 minutes before tearing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Coat Tofu: Toss the torn tofu pieces in 1/3 cup of cornstarch, ensuring they are well-coated. This step is crucial to achieving that delightful crispy texture once baked.
- Bake Tofu: Arrange the cornstarch-coated tofu evenly on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the vegetable broth, soy sauce, maple syrup, chili crisp, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Heat over medium until it simmers and everything is well combined.
- Cook Broccoli: In a large skillet, add a drizzle of neutral oil and sauté the small heads of broccoli over medium-high heat until they are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes, keeping their vibrant color.
- Combine: Add the baked tofu to the skillet with the sautéed broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated. Garnish with scallions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Optional: Serve this dish over steamed white rice for a wholesome and fulfilling meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sesame Tofu & Broccoli?
As you gather around the table to enjoy this delightful dish, consider these accompaniment options to create a well-rounded meal filled with flavor and warmth.
- Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce, providing a comforting base and elevating the dish’s heartiness.
- Garlic Noodles: Their buttery essence and savory garlic flavor make a lush complement to the vibrant tofu and broccoli, adding a satisfying texture.
- Crispy Cauliflower: Roasted or air-fried, it adds a crunchy counterpart, mirroring the crispy tofu while providing a different vegetable flavor that echoes the main dish.
- Cold Sesame Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad brings a cooling contrast to the warm stir-fry, enhancing the meal’s flavor profile with bright, crunchy bites.
- Sweet and Spicy Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness paired with a hint of heat ties in beautifully with the sauce, making a colorful addition to your Hanukkah dinner table.
- Miso Soup: Start the meal with a warm, soothing bowl of miso soup, which layers in umami and complements the overall theme of your celebration.
- Chili Garlic Edamame: These bite-sized snacks pack a punch and are perfect for nibbling while waiting for the main course their fresh, snappy taste mirrors the flair of the main dish.
- Fruit Sorbet: A light dessert like raspberry or mango sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser, wrapping up dinner with a touch of sweetness and coolness.
Each pairing is carefully chosen to enhance the delightful essence of your Sesame Tofu & Broccoli dinner, ensuring a joyous and harmonious celebration!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Sesame Tofu & Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can press and coat the tofu with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it remains fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time, cooled, and refrigerated for up to 3 days in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake the tofu, sauté the broccoli, and combine everything with the sauce. This meal can go from prep to table in no time, giving you a delightful dish that’s just as delicious as when made fresh perfect for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Sesame Tofu & Broccoli
• Choose the Right Tofu: Always use extra-firm tofu for maximum crispiness. Soft or silken varieties won’t yield the desired texture for this dish.
• Pressing Matters: Don’t skip the 30-45 minutes of pressing the tofu. This step removes excess moisture, preventing sogginess when baked.
• Cornstarch Coating: A generous coating of cornstarch is key. Ensure all sides of the tofu are covered for the ultimate crunchy experience in your sesame tofu.
• Avoid Overcrowding: When baking the tofu, arrange it in a single layer with space between pieces. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of that perfect crispiness.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Sauté until just tender-crisp. Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrancy and crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the sesame tofu.
• Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, serve over steamed white rice. This complements the flavors perfectly and creates a more filling dinner that’s perfect for Hanukkah celebrations.
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Tofu & Broccoli
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sesame tofu separately from the broccoli in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat to maintain the crisp texture of the tofu. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the tofu and sauce in advance and store separately; combine with cooked broccoli for a quick dinner that celebrates Hanukkah any night of the week!
Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring these delightful options that invite creativity in your kitchen!
- Snap Peas: Swap broccoli for snappy sugar snap peas for a crisp and sweet contrast that adds a beautiful color pop.
- Cashew Crunch: Add crushed cashews on top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; they also bring a lovely richness to the dish.
- Soy-Free Sauce: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to craft a soy-free version while still enjoying the umami notes.
- Spicy Heat: Mix in sliced jalapeños or red chili flakes for a fiery twist that will awaken your taste buds and ramp up the excitement.
- Bell Pepper Boost: Toss in sliced bell peppers for an extra layer of sweetness and a vibrant splash of color that enhances both taste and presentation.
- Quinoa Base: Replace rice with fluffy quinoa to elevate your dish’s protein content and create a wholesome, nutty bed for your tofu and broccoli.
- Miso Magic: Stir in a spoonful of miso paste to the sauce for deep, rich flavor; it adds a savory depth that elevates the overall dish.
- Minty Freshness: Garnish with fresh mint or cilantro for a refreshing herbal note that brightens each bite, making your celebration even more festive!
Celebrate Hanukkah with Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best tofu for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results with your Sesame Tofu & Broccoli, always opt for extra-firm tofu. It has a denser texture that holds up well during baking, ensuring it becomes perfectly crispy. Soft or silken tofu will not provide the desired crunch when baked.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. I often use glass containers for storage because they provide a better seal and don’t retain odorous flavors.
Can I freeze Sesame Tofu & Broccoli?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! I recommend freezing the sesame tofu separately from the broccoli. Place each component in airtight containers, and it can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat to bring back that delightful texture.
What if my tofu turns out soggy?
If your tofu ends up soggy, it could be due to not pressing it long enough to remove excess moisture. Always press your tofu for about 30-45 minutes and make sure it is well-coated in cornstarch before baking. If you’ve already baked it and it turned out soggy, I suggest cranking up the oven to 425°F (220°C) and baking it for a little longer to regain some crispiness.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Certainly! To make this recipe gluten-free, you can replace the reduced-sodium soy sauce with tamari, which offers a similar taste without the gluten. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients you use, like vegetable broth, are labeled gluten-free. Enjoy peace of mind while indulging in this delicious meal!
What are some good side dishes to pair with this meal?
The Sesame Tofu & Broccoli is delightfully satisfying on its own, but you can elevate your Hanukkah experience by adding steamed white rice or cauliflower rice. For an extra touch, serve with a simple cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar, or create a side of crispy egg rolls for that perfect festive flair.
Celebrate Hanukkah with Tasty Sesame Tofu & Broccoli Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Press excess moisture out of the extra-firm tofu by wrapping it in a clean towel and placing a weighted object on top. Allow it to press for about 30-45 minutes before tearing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss the torn tofu pieces in 1/3 cup of cornstarch, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Arrange the cornstarch-coated tofu evenly on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the vegetable broth, soy sauce, maple syrup, chili crisp, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Heat over medium until it simmers.
- In a large skillet, add a drizzle of neutral oil and sauté the small heads of broccoli over medium-high heat until they are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the baked tofu to the skillet with the sautéed broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss gently until well-coated. Garnish with scallions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.
- Optional: Serve this dish over steamed white rice.