Description
This Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu recipe transforms simple tofu into a mouthwatering, golden-crisp main course, glazed with a sweet, garlicky sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it features balanced flavors and a satisfying crunch that appeals to vegans and omnivores alike.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crispy Tofu
- 14 oz (400g) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey (use maple syrup for vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water
For Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
- Coat the Tofu: In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until each piece is evenly coated.
- Fry the Tofu: Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden and crispy, about 8โ10 minutes. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic. Sautรฉ for about 30 seconds. Stir in soy sauce, honey, vinegar, and water. Bring to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens, about 1โ2 minutes.
- Glaze the Tofu: Return the crispy tofu to the pan and toss well until each piece is coated in the glossy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer to a serving plate, top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired, and serve hot over rice or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- For even crispier tofu, you can bake or air fry the coated tofu at 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) for 20โ25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- If making vegan, substitute honey with pure maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Serve immediately for best texture, as the tofu may soften if left to sit.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed broccoli, jasmine rice, or soba noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 of recipe
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 865mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg