Sheet-Pan Sesame Tofu and Red Onions

Introduction

Sheet pans are a versatile and beloved addition to my kitchen, not only for their aesthetic appeal on the counter, but also for the convenience they offer in cooking. One of their best features is the accompanying lid that perfectly fits the pan, ensuring your tofu stays moist and succulent throughout the cooking process. For this particular recipe, I've chosen to create an effortless weeknight meal consisting of pan-fried tofu and red onions, all cooked in a rich and fragrant sesame seed oil. This delightful dish utilizes simple ingredients to achieve a harmonious balance of contrasting flavors and textures: savory and sweet, crisp and tender. The tofu's natural nuttiness is elevated by a coating of turmeric and sesame seeds, while the onions, often overshadowed in vegetable dishes, are transformed into soft, caramelized morsels with a delightful crunch. A lively combination of fresh herbs and citrus juice adds a refreshing element to this dish, which pairs well with a variety of vegetables (such as sweet potatoes and squash), grains (like rice), pita or tortillas, and creamy accompaniments like hummus, yogurt, or avocado. Marinating the tofu in soy sauce, mirin (Japanese rice wine), and garlic for approximately 30 minutes allows it to absorb the flavors before being sautéed with ginger, scallions, and garlic until golden brown (around 10 minutes). Finally, the tofu is tossed with chopped green onions, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat. To complete the meal, serve the tofu and onion mixture over your choice of white or brown rice.

INGREDIENTS

Yield: 2 to 3 servings

• 1 (14- to 16-ounce) block extra-firm tofu, drained

• 2 medium red or yellow onions, cut through the root into 8 wedges

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1½ cups parsley or cilantro leaves and tender stems, tough stems thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon or lime juice

PREPARATION

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and arrange the tofu in a single layer, ensuring that all the pieces are touching. Drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper, then place the red onions around the tofu in an even pattern.
   
2. Prepare all of your ingredients: Cut the tofu into 8 even pieces, and then cut each piece in half. Slice the red onions and garlic. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. In a small bowl, combine the sesame seeds and salt blend (such as Trader Joe's Everything But the Bagel seasoning). Mix well and set aside. If using coarse salt, grind it into finer pieces.
   
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy clean-up and to prevent the tofu from sticking to the pan.
   
5. In a medium bowl, gently toss the tofu, onions, garlic, and oil (avocado oil is a great option) to coat evenly.
   
6. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or Silpat mats. Spray with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Sprinkle the sesame seed and salt blend over one side of each sheet pan, then arrange the tofu mixture in even layers on top. Be careful not to pack it down too tightly. Bake for 35-45 minutes until golden brown around the edges, checking frequently to prevent burning.
   
7. Once the tofu is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Transfer the tofu and onions to a serving platter or individual plates.
   

This healthy and delicious recipe is vegan-friendly!

To elevate the dish further, add the fresh herb and citrus mixture to the tofu and onions, gently tossing to ensure even distribution. The vibrant combination of parsley or cilantro leaves and tender stems, combined with the zesty lemon or lime juice, brings a burst of freshness to the dish that complements the rich flavors and textures. Serve your pan-fried tofu and caramelized onions over a bed of white or brown rice to create a satisfying and wholesome meal. As an alternative, you can also serve it with other grains like quinoa or couscous, or even alongside a crisp green salad. This versatile and flavorful dish is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and more special occasions, offering a delicious vegan option that is sure to impress. Feel free to customize the recipe with additional herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences or to accommodate any dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this easy and nutritious pan-fried tofu and red onion recipe showcases the versatility and appeal of sheet pan cooking. The delightful balance of flavors and textures, combined with the convenience of a one-pan meal, make this dish a fantastic addition to your repertoire. Don't forget to like, share, and comment on this recipe to support small-time creators. We appreciate your feedback and suggestions for substitutes or variations, particularly for those with dietary restrictions. Stay tuned for upcoming video content featuring step-by-step instructions and additional tips on how to enhance your meal preparation experience. Happy cooking!