Easy Teriyaki Tofu (30 minutes, 1 pan)

Ingredients

For the Tofu

• 15 ounces firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed for at least 15 minutes and torn into 3/4” organic shapes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce, or tamari for gluten-free
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons oil

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1 tablespoon garlic paste, or minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce, or tamari
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon molasses
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
• 3 green onions, chopped into 1” pieces

For Garnish

• more sesame seeds
• chopped green onion

Steps

1. If it has not already been pressed, press the tofu, then tear it into organic shapes or 3/4” pieces. Put it in a bowl and toss with the soy sauce until coated. Separately mix the garlic powder, black pepper and cornstarch in a small bowl; sprinkle this over the tofu and toss thoroughly to coat.
2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and heat the 2 teaspoons oil in it. When hot, add the tofu in an even layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, flip, and cook 2 to 3 minutes more. Turn it a few more times until most edges are crisp. Remove it from the pan and set it aside; this takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. For a baked version, toss the tofu with the oil, arrange it on a baking sheet lined with parchment, and bake at 400°F (205° C) for 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, air-fry for 12-15 mins at 370 F.
4. For the sauce, put the ginger, garlic, soy sauce, maple syrup, brown sugar, vinegar, molasses and pepper flakes in the skillet and bring to a boil. Mix in the cornstarch slurry, sesame seeds and green onions thoroughly and bring it back to the boil. Simmer about another 2 minutes to thicken. Toss the crisp tofu into the sauce well, then turn off the heat. Top with more sesame seeds and green onion, and serve over rice, quinoa or in lettuce wraps, or as you prefer.