Sesame Tofu

Serves 2-4 people

Ingredients

400g block of extra-firm tofu
4-6 tbsp neutral oil (canola, vegetable) 

For the marinade:
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp ground ginger

For the dredge:
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt

For the sesame sauce:
1/2 cup vegan chicken broth (or veg broth or water)
2 tsp soy sauce
1/2 tsp tomato paste
1 splash rice vinegar
1 tsp maple syrup
2 tbsp sweet red chili sauce
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tbsp cornstarch

Optional ingredients:
1 bell pepper (chopped in 1x1 inch pieces) 
1/2 red onion (chopped in 1x1 inch pieces)
1 clove garlic (minced) 
2 cups cooked rice
2 cups cooked broccoli
2 scallions chopped

Recipe

1. Cover the tofu with a paper towel or tea towel and press with a heavy object for 30 mins (for best results - up to 2 hours)
2. Combine the ingredients for the marinade in a large ziplock bag. 
3. When the tofu has pressed for at least 30 mins, chop it into 1-2 inch irregular cubes. Put it in the bag with the marinade and gently massage the marinade into the tofu. Put it in the fridge for at least 30 mins.
4. Combine the ingredients for the sesame sauce in a bowl.
5. Combine the ingredients for the dredge in a large bowl. 
6. When the tofu is done marinating, remove it from the fridge. Remove from the ziplock bag and combine it with the dredge. Stir it gently to ensure that the tofu is evenly coated.
7. Pour a neutral oil (canola, vegetable, etc) into a large saucepan to about 1 inch. Turn on the stove to a medium high heat.
8. With your hands, shake off the excess dredge from the tofu pieces as you transfer them into the pan. Allow them to cook until they brown on all sides, gently stirring occasionally.
9. Remove the tofu and place them on a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.
10. Remove all but about 2 tbsp of oil from the pan.
11. Add in the peppers, onion and garlic (optional) and fry them for about 2 minutes.
12. Pour the sesame sauce into the pan and allow it to thicken (3-5 minutes). Then transfer in the cooked tofu and stir it with the sauce.
13. Plate the tofu. (Optional: with rice and broccoli. Top with green onion.)
Enjoy :)