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Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu Recipe


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3.9 from 63 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu recipe offers a deliciously crunchy and flavorful vegan dish, featuring golden fried tofu coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables.


Ingredients

Tofu and Coating

  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp sesame oil

Cooking Oil

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)


Instructions

  1. Press the tofu: Press the tofu for 15-20 minutes using a heavy object to remove excess moisture. This step is essential to ensure the tofu crisps nicely when fried. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
  2. Coat the tofu: Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch until they are well coated. The cornstarch helps create a crispy exterior when fried.
  3. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil to create a flavorful honey garlic sauce.
  4. Fry the tofu: Heat vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Coat with sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the crispy tofu cubes in the skillet. Toss gently to coat evenly and cook for an additional minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the tofu.
  6. Serve: Serve the crispy honey garlic tofu immediately with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Pressing tofu thoroughly is crucial to achieve crispy results; use a tofu press or place the tofu between paper towels and apply weight.
  • Use firm or extra-firm tofu for best texture.
  • Adjust the amount of honey to your taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet sauce.
  • For a vegan variation, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • Ensure not to overcrowd the pan while frying to allow tofu pieces to crisp evenly.
  • Leftover tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently in a skillet.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian