Go Back
–+ servings
Crispy Pan-Fried Garlic Tofu

Crispy Pan-Fried Garlic Tofu Everyone Will Love

This Crispy Pan-Fried Garlic Tofu is a delicious vegan dish that combines a crunchy texture with bold flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu
  • 1 block Extra Firm Tofu Provides the chewy base and ideal structure for crispiness.
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch Coats the tofu for a satisfyingly crunchy crust.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil Infuses a rich, nutty flavor; use sparingly.
  • 3 tablespoons Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Adds depth of flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Sweetens and balances the sauce; substitute with agave syrup for vegan.
  • 1 tablespoon Sambal Oelek Adds a kick of heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Paste Provides a consistent garlic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Wine Vinegar Provides acidity to balance the sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Water Adjusts the sauce's consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon Cornstarch To thicken the sauce.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Paper Towels
  • Weight

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Wrap the block of extra firm tofu in paper towels and place a weight on top. Let it sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Unwrap the tofu and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Toss with cornstarch until thoroughly coated.
  3. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat for 2 minutes.
  4. Add the coated tofu cubes to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Whisk together the soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of water, honey, sambal oelek, garlic paste, rice wine vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch.
  6. Pour the sauce over the fried tofu and gently toss to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  7. Remove from heat and serve immediately, optionally over rice or in lettuce wraps.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!