AppetizerSide Dish

Tofu Dengaku

Name: Tofu Dengaku
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: japanese
Ingredients: 400 g firm tofu pressed and sliced into 1-inch thick rectangles; 4 tbsp white miso paste; 2 tbsp mirin; 2 tbsp sake; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp sesame seed toasted; 1 pcs green onion thinly sliced

Tofu Dengaku is a traditional Japanese dish featuring firm tofu coated in a savory-sweet miso glaze and then broiled or baked until caramelized. This vegan appetizer offers a delightful contrast of textures and rich umami flavor.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time: 35 min
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Medium

VegetarianGluten-free

Allergen information: may contain sesame, soy, and sulphites. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Mise en place

Ingredients

400 gfirm tofu, pressed and sliced into 1-inch thick rectangles

miso glaze

4 tbspwhite miso paste
2 tbspmirin
2 tbspsake
1 tbspsugar
1 tspsesame oil

garnish

1 tspsesame seed, toasted
1 pcsgreen onion, thinly sliced

Equipment

pastry brush · baking sheet · parchment paper · whisk · small bowl

The method

Step by step

1
Press the firm tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water, then slice it into 1-inch thick rectangles.
Cook’s note: Pressing the tofu ensures a firmer texture and better absorption of the glaze.
2
Preheat your oven broiler to high or set the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
About 5 min
3
In a small bowl, whisk together the white miso paste, mirin, sake, sugar, and sesame oil until smooth to create the glaze.
About 2 min
4
Arrange the sliced tofu on the prepared baking sheet.
About 1 min
5
Brush a generous layer of the miso glaze over both sides of each tofu slice.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Ensure an even coating for best flavor and caramelization.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the glaze starts to bubble and slightly caramelize.
About 12 min
Cook’s note: Keep a close eye on the tofu to prevent burning, especially if using the broiler.
7
If using a broiler, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until the glaze is deeply golden brown and slightly charred in spots.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Watch carefully, as broilers can quickly burn food.
8
Remove the tofu from the oven.
9
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onion before serving.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Serve immediately while warm.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover Tofu Dengaku in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a microwave or a preheated oven until warmed through.