Sesame-Crusted Tofu with Nuoc Cham

Place block of tofu in a colander. Place the package on top of it and weigh it down with a can of tomatoes or some other relatively heavy canned good. Drain the Extra Firm Tofu (1 lb) for as much time as possible, 20 minutes to an 1 hour.

Meanwhile make the nuoc cham: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Granulated Sugar (4 Tbsp), Fish Sauce (1/3 cup), and juice from Limes (3 1/2) until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Add the Garlic (2 cloves) and Thai Chili Peppers (2). Let stand for 30 minutes while you prepare the tofu. Taste and adjust flavors if necessary. Store in the refrigerator for at least a week.

In a small shallow vessel with sides, beat the Egg (1) with 1 tsp Water. In another small shallow vessel with sides, stir together the Kosher Salt (as needed), Panko Breadcrumbs (3 Tbsp), White Sesame Seeds (2 Tbsp), and Black Sesame Seeds (1 Tbsp).

Carefully cut the drained tofu into three slices. Working with one piece at a time, submerge the tofu into the egg, then coat it in the sesame-panko mix, then place it on a clean plate. Repeat with the remaining two slices.

Heat a large nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add Canola Oil (as needed). Carefully lay each piece of tofu into the frying pan. Turn the heat down to medium if the slices appear to be browning too quickly. Crisp tofu slices for about 3-4 minutes a side, then transfer to a serving platter.

Cut each slice in half and then arrange them on a platter. Garnish with Scallions (to taste). Serve with nuoc cham and Sriracha (to taste) if you wish.