Sesame Apricot Tofu Bowl

This Sesame Apricot Tofu Bowl combines crispy pan-seared tofu with caramelized roasted apricots, finished with toasted sesame seeds for a crunchy, nutty flavor. The dish features a balance of textures—crunchy, tender, and juicy—with vibrant aromas from toasted seeds and sweet fruit. It’s a visually appealing and satisfying meal that highlights simple, wholesome ingredients prepared with care.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine fusion

Servings 2

Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

Non-stick skillet
Baking sheet
Spatula
Small pan
Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

14 oz firm tofu pressed to remove excess water
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp honey or maple syrup for marinade
4 oz sesame seeds preferably toasted
4 apricots fresh apricots halved and pitted
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for roasting apricots
1 tbsp lemon or lime juice for brightness
2 cups cooked rice or greens for serving
oil vegetable oil for searing tofu

Instructions

Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into 1-inch cubes. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey or maple syrup. Marinate the tofu in this mixture for 10-15 minutes until well coated.
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a splash of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated tofu cubes, searing them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
While the tofu cooks, spread the halved apricots on a baking sheet and drizzle with honey or maple syrup. Roast in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 15 minutes, until they are tender and caramelized around the edges. Remove and set aside.
Meanwhile, toast the sesame seeds in a small dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden. Shake the pan frequently to prevent burning. Set aside.
Once the tofu is crispy and the apricots are roasted, squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the apricots to brighten their flavor.
Build your bowls by layering cooked rice or greens at the base. Top with the crispy tofu and roasted apricots, then sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds.
Finish with an extra squeeze of lemon or lime for added zing. Serve immediately so the tofu remains crispy and the apricots warm and caramelized.

Notes

Pressing the tofu thoroughly ensures maximum crispiness. Roasting apricots until they start to ooze syrup enhances their sweetness and flavor. Toast sesame seeds until fragrant but watch carefully to avoid burning.