Chinese Lemon Tofu

Step 1

Prep: Preheat the oven to 425F and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Tear the tofu into bite-sized chunks for a more meat-like texture, or cut into small cubes.

Step 2

Tofu: Add the tofu to a medium bowl and add in the oil and tamari. Toss with a spatula until evenly coated, then sprinkle the cornstarch on top and toss again. Transfer to a baking sheet and spread out the tofu pieces so they aren’t touching. Bake on the top rack of the oven for 30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through.

Step 3

Make the Sauce: In the meantime, zest the lemon and set aside. In a medium bowl or glass measuring cup, whisk the vegetable broth, lemon juice, tamari, sugar, and cornstarch together until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.

Step 4

Sauté Aromatics: Warm the oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Once warm, add the white parts of the green onion, garlic, ginger, and optional pepper. Sauté for 60 seconds, then add in the lemon sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the lemon zest to the sauce and sauté for one more minute.

Step 5

Final Touches: Remove the tofu from the oven and add it to the pan, coating all sides of the tofu in the glossy lemon sauce. Stir in the sesame seeds and mix well.

Step 6

Serve & Store: Serve warm over rice and topped with green onions and lemon slices, or as desired. Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.