Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again—whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or showing off your veggie-cooking skills at a potluck. Think golden, caramelized Brussels sprouts mingling with cubes of tofu that are crisp on the outside and tender inside, all tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy glaze that makes your taste buds dance. This is a vibrant, flavor-packed main course that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful, and I can personally vouch: it’s one of those recipes that turns Brussels sprouts skeptics into true believers!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, crunch, and color. From the earthy Brussels sprouts to the silky tofu and that irresistible honey-sesame glaze, every component brings something special to the table.
- Extra-firm tofu (14 oz): The key to crispiness; make sure to press it well to remove moisture for the best golden edges.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): This is your secret weapon for that delightful crunch on the tofu.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons, divided): Adds savory depth to both tofu and the glaze—don’t skip it!
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon, divided): Nutty and aromatic, it coats the tofu and Brussels sprouts for extra richness.
- Brussels sprouts (1 pound, trimmed and halved): Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and turns the edges crispy.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the sprouts roast evenly and get those gorgeous caramelized bits.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that make all the flavors pop.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): For glossy sweetness in the glaze (swap for maple or agave if vegan).
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brings a bright, tangy note to balance the honey.
- Toasted sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Just a touch infuses the glaze with toasty depth.
- Sriracha (1 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick—add more or less to suit your spice preferences.
- Grated fresh ginger (1 teaspoon): Fresh, zesty, and a perfect match for the glaze.
- Sesame seeds (1 teaspoon): Sprinkle on top for a little crunch and visual flair.
- Chopped green onions: The finishing touch for color and a fresh, mild bite.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze
Step 1: Prep the Tofu
Start by draining and pressing your extra-firm tofu to remove as much moisture as possible—this is the step that gives us that irresistible crispiness later on. Slice the tofu into bite-sized cubes, then toss them gently with a tablespoon of soy sauce and let them marinate for about five minutes. This little soak infuses the tofu with savory depth right from the start.
Step 2: Coat and Oil the Tofu
Sprinkle the marinated tofu cubes with cornstarch, tossing until each piece is evenly dusted. This coating is what transforms the edges into a crisp, golden crust as they roast. Arrange the tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and drizzle with half of your sesame oil. Trust me, that nutty aroma as it roasts is worth the extra minute.
Step 3: Prep the Brussels Sprouts
While the tofu sits, turn your attention to the Brussels sprouts. Trim and halve them for maximum caramelization, then toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and the remaining sesame oil. Spread them out cut-side down on a separate baking sheet—this ensures the flat sides get extra crispy and golden.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Pop both trays in a preheated 425°F oven and let the magic happen for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the tofu halfway through to ensure even browning. When done, you’ll have deeply roasted sprouts and tofu cubes that are golden and crunchy on the outside, tender inside.
Step 5: Make the Honey-Sesame Glaze
While everything roasts, grab a small saucepan and whisk together honey, the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sriracha (if you like a little heat), and fresh ginger. Simmer over medium heat for just a few minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and the ginger perfumes your kitchen.
Step 6: Toss and Finish
Once the tofu and Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey-sesame glaze over the top and toss gently to coat every piece in that sticky, irresistible sauce. Finish by scattering sesame seeds and chopped green onions over everything for the final flourish. Now, your Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze is ready to shine!
How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze
Garnishes
The right garnish does more than just make your plate pretty—it adds flavor and texture, too! For this dish, a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds crunch while chopped green onions give a pop of fresh color and a gentle bite. If you’re feeling extra, a few chili flakes or a drizzle of extra honey-sesame glaze on top never hurts.
Side Dishes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice, nutty brown rice, or even a bed of quinoa for a protein-packed meal. Want to keep things lighter? Try serving it over a tangle of steamed greens or alongside a crisp Asian-inspired slaw.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little flair, serve this dish family-style in a large shallow bowl, or plate individual portions on small platters for a modern touch. You can also pile the roasted veggies and tofu into lettuce wraps for a fun, hands-on appetizer—or tuck them into a grain bowl with pickled veggies for a colorful lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld even more as they rest, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to.
Freezing
While the Brussels sprouts and tofu can technically be frozen, their textures are best enjoyed fresh or just-refrigerated. Freezing can make the tofu a little chewy and the sprouts a bit soft, but if you must, freeze in a single layer and let thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze in a hot oven or toaster oven (about 375°F) for 8 to 10 minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave works in a pinch but will soften the tofu and sprouts.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. You’ll still get that gorgeous sticky-sweet glaze, and the rest of the ingredients are already plant-based, making Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze a fantastic vegan main course.
How do I get the crispiest tofu?
The secret is pressing the tofu well to remove excess water, coating it evenly with cornstarch, and roasting at a high temperature. Spacing the cubes out on the baking sheet helps each side crisp up beautifully.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best for this recipe since frozen Brussels sprouts tend to release more moisture and won’t roast up as crisply. If you only have frozen, be sure to thaw and pat them dry very well before roasting.
What can I substitute for sriracha in the glaze?
If you don’t have sriracha, try a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Or, if you prefer to keep things mild, simply leave out the spice—the honey-sesame glaze will still be deliciously flavorful.
Is this dish gluten-free?
With one simple swap—using tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce—Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze becomes completely gluten-free. Always double-check your labels to be sure!
Final Thoughts
I hope you fall in love with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze as much as I have. It’s a dish that brings together bold flavors, gorgeous textures, and so much color in every bite. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when it becomes your new go-to for veggie-packed dinners!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze is a delicious and healthy Asian-inspired vegetarian dish featuring perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts and golden, crispy tofu tossed in a sweet and tangy honey-sesame sauce. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Tofu Marinade and Coating
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu, drained, pressed, and cubed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil, divided
Brussels Sprouts
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Remaining 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
Honey-Sesame Glaze
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Garnish
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a medium bowl, toss the cubed tofu with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and let it marinate for 5 minutes. Then sprinkle the cornstarch over the tofu and toss again until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Arrange for Roasting: Place the coated tofu on a parchment-lined baking sheet and drizzle with half of the sesame oil (1/2 tablespoon). On a separate baking sheet, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil. Arrange the sprouts cut-side down for better caramelization.
- Roast Tofu and Brussels Sprouts: Roast both trays in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the tofu pieces halfway through to ensure even crispiness. Roast until the tofu is golden brown and the Brussels sprouts are browned and crispy on the edges.
- Make the Honey-Sesame Glaze: While roasting, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sriracha (if using), and grated ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Toss and Serve: Once the tofu and Brussels sprouts are done, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm honey-sesame glaze over and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions just before serving.
Notes
- To make this dish vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain for a complete meal.
- For extra crispy tofu, consider using an air fryer instead of the oven.
- Be sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture which helps with crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
