- Why is the tahini sauce lumpy?
- Tahini seizes up when it first touches water. Keep adding water gradually and whisk vigorously until it becomes creamy again.
- Can I use toasted sesame oil instead of tahini?
- No, tahini provides the body and creaminess of the sauce; the oil is just for flavor.
Tahini Glazed Tofu Stir-Fry
Tahini (sesame paste) isn't just for hummus; it's an excellent sauce base for stir-fries. Its thick, nutty flavor adheres perfectly to grilled tofu and crunchy vegetables. This recipe blends Middle Eastern flavors with Asian cooking techniques, creating a creamy yet fresh dish. The secret lies in properly emulsifying the tahini sauce.
Ingredients
12
oz
Firm Tofu
3
tbsp
Tahini (Sesame Paste)
10
oz
Mixed Vegetables (Carrot, Bell Pepper, Red Onion)
2
tbsp
Soy Sauce
1
tbsp
Lemon Juice
1
clove
Garlic
2
tbsp
Vegetable Oil (for frying)
3-4
tbsp
Water (for sauce)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Wok - for frying vegetables
- Small bowl and whisk - for mixing sauce
- Chef's Knife
Allergen Information
Soy
Sesame
Instructions
1
✓
Cube the tofu and pat dry. Fry in a hot wok with a little oil until golden brown on all sides, then remove to a plate.
Tip: Removing moisture is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.
2
✓
Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces. Add a little more oil to the wok and stir-fry the vegetables on high heat for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the wok so the vegetables fry rather than steam.
3
✓
Meanwhile, make the sauce: whisk together tahini, crushed garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, and enough water to get a heavy cream consistency.
Tip: The acidity of lemon juice counteracts the richness and slight bitterness of tahini, balancing the flavors.
4
✓
Return the tofu to the vegetables, pour over the sauce, and toss for half a minute until the sauce warms up and coats everything.
Tip: Don't cook long with the sauce, as tahini can thicken and dry out.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 12 oz Firm Tofu
- 3 tbsp Tahini (Sesame Paste)
- 10 oz Mixed Vegetables (Carrot, Bell Pepper, Red Onion)
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 clove Garlic
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil (for frying)
- 3-4 tbsp Water (for sauce)