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Baked tofu served with lemon tahini dressing, fresh parsley and sesame seeds
Healthy and tasty baked tofu with lemon tahini dressing

Golden Tofu with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Vegetarian & Vegan Dishes Main Courses
Tahini (sesame paste) is the liquid gold of Middle Eastern cuisine. On its own, it's thick and tart, but mixed with lemon and water, it undergoes a magical chemical transformation: it lightens in color and becomes silky smooth. This rich dressing coats the crispy, salty tofu, creating a simple yet royal harmony of flavors.
🕒 Prep Time 20 mins
🍳 Cook Time 15 mins
⌛ Total Time 35 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 480 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Middle Eastern

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Skillet
  • Whisk or fork (for dressing)
  • Paper towels
  • Bowls

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy
⚠️ Sesame (tahini, seeds)

Instructions

1 ✓

Thoroughly press the tofu with paper towels, then cut into 3/4-inch cubes.

Tip: Removing surface water is key to a crispy result; otherwise, the tofu steams rather than frying.
2 ✓

Make the marinade: mix soy sauce, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, honey, and 1 tbsp olive oil.

Tip: The oil helps carry flavors, and honey aids caramelization.
3 ✓

Toss tofu in the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.

Tip: Tofu's porous structure absorbs the liquid.
4 ✓

Meanwhile, make the tahini dressing: whisk tahini, remaining (2 tbsp) lemon juice, the other minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper. Gradually add cold water while whisking until it reaches a pourable consistency.

Tip: Cold water helps stabilize the emulsion for a creamier texture.
5 ✓

Heat the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove tofu from marinade and fry until golden brown on all sides (6-8 mins).

Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; leave room for steam to escape.
6 ✓

Serve hot tofu drizzled with creamy tahini dressing, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped parsley.

Tip: The fresh herbs balance the richness of the tahini.

Recipe FAQ

Why did the tahini dressing clump?
When you add lemon juice, it suddenly thickens ('seizes'). This is natural! Gradually add cold water and keep whisking until it becomes creamy again.
Which tofu should I buy?
Firm or Extra Firm is best for this recipe as it holds its shape well during frying.

Ingredients

  • 1 block (10-12 oz) Firm Tofu
  • 2 tbsp Tahini Paste
  • 3 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice (divided)
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil (divided)
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 1 tsp Honey
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
  • 1 handful Fresh Parsley
  • 2 tbsp Cold Water (for dressing)