Sesame Apricot Tofu

• of extra firm tofu (high protein tofu works really well in this recipe, if you can find it!)↗1
• cornstarch↗2 tablespoon
• soy sauce↗1 tablespoon
• olive oil↗2 tablespoon
• apricot preserves↗0.333333 cup
• soy sauce↗1 tablespoon
• rice vinegar↗1
• each cumin, paprika, and onion powder0.5 teaspoon
• cloves garlic, grated (2 for more garlic flavor, obviously)↗1
• salt (more to taste)↗0.25 teaspoon
• rice↗1 cup
• steamed green beans12 ounce
• toasted sesame oil to taste↗1
• chives and/or cilantro for topping0.25 cup

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Cut the tofu block in half horizontally (like a hamburger). If using extra firm high protein tofu, it helps to cut it in half again horizontally. Press the water out of the tofu by wrapping it in paper towels and setting a few heavy books on top of it. Let it stay like that for a few minutes while you prep the sauce.

2. 2

   Whisk the sauce ingredients together.

3. 3

   Take each piece of tofu and gently pull it into small chunks with your hands (this just gives the tofu pieces a unique shape and texture that holds onto the sauce really well). Place the chunks in a bowl. Toss with soy sauce and a teaspoon or two of olive oil; then sprinkle with cornstarch and give it a few gentle tosses to coat.

4. 4

   Before your start browning your tofu, cook your rice according to package directions and start your green beans! Steam, microwave, sautè – whatever your preferred green bean method is.

5. 5

   In a nonstick skillet over medium high heat, heat the olive oil and then add the cornstarched tofu. Leave it undisturbed for a few minutes on each side, letting it get really nice and brown and crispy – this can take 10-15 minutes. Flip and repeat until the whole batch is browned and crispy.

6. 6

   Finally, add the sauce to the tofu and remove from heat – the pan will still be hot, so it’ll be sizzly and smell really good from the garlic. The sauce will coat the tofu right away. *heart eyes*

7. 7

   Top with the chives and/or cilantro and sesame oil. Serve with rice and green beans, and finish with more salt and lots of black pepper to taste. The tender crunch of the beans with the steamy rice and sticky tofu! SO good.