Here is the recipe for Sesame Tofu with Broccoli:
**Ingredients:**
For the tofu:
* 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1/4 cup cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
For the broccoli:
* 1 bunch of broccoli, cut into florets
* 2 cloves of garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
For the sesame sauce:
* 1/2 cup tahini
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 tablespoon grated ginger
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup water
* Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
**Cooking Steps:**
1. **Prepare the tofu:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add the tofu cubes and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb the marinade.
2. **Cook the broccoli:** Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Cook the tofu:** Remove the tofu from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. **Make the sesame sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and garlic until smooth. Add the water and whisk until well combined.
5. **Assemble and serve:** Place the cooked broccoli on a platter or individual plates. Add the cooked tofu on top of the broccoli and drizzle with the sesame sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a crisper exterior on the tofu, bake it in the oven for 10-15 minutes before cooking in a skillet.
* Use different seasonsings for the tofu, such as lemon juice and zest or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
* Add other aromatics to the sesame sauce, such as softened onions or grated carrots.
* Substitute the broccoli with other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or cauliflower.
* Add some heat to the dish by using sriracha or hot sauce in the sesame sauce.
* Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a filling and satisfying meal.
* Make extra sesame sauce and use it as a dipping sauce for other dishes, such as edamame or spring rolls.
**Other ingredients for variations:**
* Lemon juice and zest: adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the sesame sauce
* Red pepper flakes: adds a spicy kick to the sesame sauce
* Miso paste: adds a rich and savory flavor to the sesame sauce
* Grated carrots: adds a sweet and crunchy texture to the sesame sauce
* Softened onions: adds a sweet and caramelized flavor to the sesame sauce
* Bell peppers: adds a crunchy and sweet texture to the dish
* Mushrooms: adds an earthy and savory flavor to the dish
* Cauliflower: adds a mild and creamy texture to the dish
I hope you enjoy this recipe! Let me know if you have any questions or need further clarification.