Seared Tofu with Sesame Pineapple Glaze – A Deliciously Sticky, Sweet, and Umami-Packed Vegan Entrée That’s Easy to Make at Home

Seared Tofu with Sesame Pineapple Glaze is a bright, tangy, and savory dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Golden-crisp tofu is pan-seared and coated in a thick, sticky glaze made from fresh or canned pineapple, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This tropical-inspired vegan meal is satisfying, protein-rich, and perfect served with rice or steamed vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines sweet, salty, and tangy flavors in one irresistible glaze.
• The tofu develops a golden crust that holds up to the rich sauce.
• Easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight meals or meal prep.
• Naturally vegan, dairy-free, and packed with plant-based protein.
• Pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or a fresh vegetable side.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the tofu:

• firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into slabs or cubes
• cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for crisping)
• neutral oil for pan-searing
• salt and pepper

For the sesame pineapple glaze:

• pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
• soy sauce or tamari
• garlic, minced
• fresh ginger, grated
• brown sugar or maple syrup
• rice vinegar or lime juice
• sesame oil
• optional: red chili flakes or sriracha for heat
• toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
• green onions or cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. Press the tofu for 15–20 minutes, then cut into slabs or cubes. Toss lightly with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden and crispy on all sides. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly and add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the glaze for 3–5 minutes until thickened slightly. Add chili flakes if desired.
6. Return the tofu to the skillet and toss to coat in the glaze. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and cling to the tofu.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use tempeh instead of tofu for a nuttier, firmer texture.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli for a complete stir-fry.
• Substitute mango or orange juice for pineapple for a different tropical note.
• Include crushed pineapple in the glaze for added texture.
• Serve over coconut rice or noodles for a fusion-style dish.

Storage / Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
• Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it softens the tofu’s crispy edges.
• Freezing not recommended due to texture changes in tofu and glaze.

FAQs

What kind of tofu should I use?

Use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture and ability to hold the glaze.

Do I need to press the tofu?

Yes, pressing removes excess water, allowing the tofu to crisp up when pan-seared.

Can I bake or air-fry the tofu instead?

Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes or air-fry at 180°C (360°F) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Is fresh pineapple required?

No, canned pineapple juice or even bottled varieties will work just fine for the glaze.

Is this recipe spicy?

It can be! Add red chili flakes or sriracha to bring heat to the glaze, or omit them for a milder version.

Can I use soy-free substitutes?

Yes, coconut aminos can be used in place of soy sauce or tamari for a soy-free version.

Can I make the glaze in advance?

Absolutely. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and toss with tofu when ready to serve.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce to ensure the recipe is gluten-free.

What can I serve this with?

Steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, quinoa, or rice noodles all pair beautifully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Use a large skillet or cook the tofu in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even crisping.

Conclusion

Seared Tofu with Sesame Pineapple Glaze is a vibrant, satisfying vegan dish that delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. Whether you’re new to cooking with tofu or a seasoned pro, this sweet and savory recipe is sure to please. With its caramelized glaze, tropical notes, and crisp texture, it’s a delicious and nourishing option that you’ll come back to time and time again.

Print