If you’re ready for a veggie-packed meal that’s anything but boring, Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze is about to become your new weeknight favorite. This dish is a thrilling marriage of textures and flavors: the Brussels sprouts get irresistibly crispy and caramelized in the oven, the tofu cubes turn golden and crunchy, and everything is tossed in an addictive glaze that’s sweet, savory, and full of umami. Whether you’re already a Brussels sprouts fan or just tofu-curious, this easy vegetarian dinner delivers comfort and punchy flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a big shopping list to make big flavor here. Most of the ingredients are kitchen staples, but each one pulls its weight—bringing crispiness, color, or a bright zing to Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze. Let’s break it down:
- Extra-firm tofu: Pressing before cubing removes water so it gets irresistibly crispy in the oven.
- Brussels sprouts: When halved and roasted, these greens become sweet, nutty, and beautifully crisp on the outside.
- Olive oil: Coats both the tofu and sprouts, helping everything brown and crisp during roasting.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out the natural flavors of both main ingredients.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and savory warmth.
- Cornstarch: Gives tofu that golden, crunchy exterior and also helps the glaze cling beautifully.
- Soy sauce: The backbone of the honey-sesame glaze—full of depth and savory notes.
- Honey (or maple syrup): Sweetens and balances the umami; go for maple syrup if you want a fully vegan version.
- Rice vinegar: Brightens the whole dish, giving that tangy lift to the glaze.
- Toasted sesame oil: Brings rich, toasty, unmistakable sesame flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for a punchy aromatic backdrop in the glaze.
- Fresh ginger: Grated ginger delivers that signature zing and warmth.
- Water: Helps the glaze reach the perfect saucy consistency.
- Optional toppings (toasted sesame seeds, green onions, red pepper flakes): These add crunch, color, and a final pop of flavor right before serving.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze
Step 1: Prep and Press the Tofu
Start by draining your extra-firm tofu, then wrap it in a few layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Place a plate or skillet on top and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to remove excess moisture—this ensures your tofu gets as crispy as possible in the oven. Once pressed, cut your tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Toss and Season
Grab two mixing bowls: toss your cubed tofu with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the cornstarch, making sure each piece gets coated for maximum crunch. In another bowl, toss halved Brussels sprouts with the remaining olive oil, salt, and black pepper. The oil helps them brown up, while the seasoning brightens their flavor.
Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Line your largest baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze. Spread out the tofu cubes and Brussels sprouts in a single layer—try to place the Brussels sprouts cut side down for extra caramelization. Giving everything a little space is the secret to crispy edges.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into a 425°F (220°C) oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. At the halfway point, flip the tofu and Brussels sprouts so they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when the tofu is golden and the Brussels sprouts are richly browned and crisp at the edges.
Step 5: Whisk and Thicken the Glaze
While everything’s roasting, make your incredible honey-sesame glaze. Combine soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, and water in a small saucepan. Whisk it all together, then heat gently over medium-low. Stir constantly until it bubbles and thickens into a glossy sauce—this only takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 6: Toss and Finish
Transfer the roasted tofu and Brussels sprouts to a big bowl. Pour over that luscious honey-sesame glaze and toss everything together until every piece is beautifully coated and glistening. Now you’re ready to dive in or move on to your finishing touches!
How to Serve Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds nutty crunch, while chopped green onions provide fresh color and a hint of mild, zippy flavor. If you like a little heat, a scattering of red pepper flakes turns your Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze into a spicy treat. Don’t hold back—these finishing touches make each bite extra special.
Side Dishes
This recipe can hold its own as a hearty main, but it’s also happy with friends like fluffy jasmine rice, nutty brown rice, or even a pile of quinoa. For a lighter option, serve over a tangle of stir-fried greens or a simple Asian slaw. The glaze doubles as a delicious sauce to drizzle on whatever else is on your plate!
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze into a stunning grain bowl with avocado slices, shredded carrots, and edamame. Or, turn the whole affair onto lettuce cups for hand-held party bites. Sometimes, I pile leftovers onto toast with extra glaze for a quick lunch—it’s outrageously good and always a conversation starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any extra Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container in the fridge. The vegetables and tofu stay tasty for up to 3 days, making this dish a fantastic option for meal prepping.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, keep the tofu and Brussels sprouts separate from the glaze for best results. Place them in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat and toss with fresh glaze.
Reheating
To recapture the crispy vibe, reheat tofu and Brussels sprouts in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crunchy again. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works, though it’ll be a little softer. Gently warm the glaze on the stovetop or in the microwave, then toss everything together and top fresh.
FAQs
Can I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze fully vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the honey for maple syrup—you’ll get that same sweet, sticky finish in your glaze and keep the dish totally plant-based.
What’s the trick to getting extra crispy tofu?
Pressing out as much moisture as possible is key, but don’t forget a generous dusting of cornstarch and plenty of space on the baking sheet. Both help create those golden, crunchy edges everyone loves.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
While fresh Brussels sprouts give you the crispiest results, frozen can work in a pinch. Let them thaw first and pat dry very thoroughly before roasting. Expect a slightly softer texture but still plenty of flavor.
How spicy is the dish as written?
The base recipe is mild and family-friendly. You control the heat with the optional red pepper flakes—add as much or as little as you like when serving!
Is Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze suitable for meal prep?
Totally! The components hold up well, and you can reheat them through the week for a fuss-free lunch or dinner. Keep the glaze and toppings separate and combine everything right before serving for best texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s comforting, crave-worthy, and easy enough for any night of the week, Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze will check all your boxes. Give it a try, experiment with the toppings, and don’t be surprised if it slips straight into your regular rotation!
Print
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Tofu with Honey-Sesame Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and healthy vegetarian dish featuring crispy tofu and roasted Brussels sprouts coated in a savory honey-sesame glaze. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Tofu and Brussels Sprouts:
- 14 oz extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts (halved)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the honey-sesame glaze:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional toppings:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare tofu and Brussels sprouts: Coat cubed tofu in 1 tablespoon olive oil and cornstarch. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast: Spread tofu and Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet, roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Make glaze: In a saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and water. Heat until thickened.
- Combine: Toss roasted tofu and Brussels sprouts with glaze. Serve hot, topped with optional ingredients.
Notes
- To make this dish vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey. Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
