Good Food, Real Life

If tofu’s ever seemed bland or boring, this recipe will change your mind. With a crisp, golden sesame crust and a tender interior, it’s an irresistible plant-based protein that stands tall beside bold side dishes like Brown Butter Miso Brussels. Fast, satisfying, and full of texture, it’s a staple worth learning. Ingredients: 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) 1 tsp sesame oil 1 tsp rice vinegar 1 tsp maple syrup or honey ¼ cup sesame seeds (mix black + white for color contrast) 2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder Neutral oil for frying (avocado or canola) Instructions: Prep the tofu. Slice pressed tofu into planks or triangles—your choice. Pat dry. Marinate. In a shallow dish, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and maple. Add tofu and let sit for 15–30 minutes, flipping once. Make the crust. On a plate, mix sesame seeds and cornstarch. Coat. Dredge marinated tofu in sesame-cornstarch mixtur...

Crispy, caramelized, and coated in buttery miso magic—this dish is comfort and sophistication in one. It’s weeknight-easy but dinner-party-worthy. The nutty depth of brown butter meets the umami punch of miso, with just a whisper of maple to round it out. If you’ve ever thought you didn’t like Brussels sprouts, this will change your mind. Ingredients: 1½ lbs Brussels sprouts, halved 2 tbsp olive oil ½ tsp kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 3 tbsp unsalted butter 1 tbsp white miso paste (shiro miso) 1 tsp maple syrup (or honey) Instructions: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange cut-side down on the sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, until deeply golden and crispy on the edges. Meanwhile, brown the butter. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Let it foam and sizzle, swirling often, until golden brown and nutty smelling—about 4 minutes. ...