Description
Crispy Garlic Soy Tofu is a flavorful vegan dish featuring crunchy tofu cubes coated in a rich garlic soy glaze with hints of ginger and sweetness. This easy Asian-inspired recipe is high in plant-based protein and perfect for serving with rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 400 g extra-firm tofu
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp oil for frying
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 1/2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Press the tofu for about 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
- Place the tofu cubes in a bowl and toss with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss until evenly coated.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and chili flakes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Slowly add the slurry to the sauce while stirring continuously until the glaze thickens.
- Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the garlic soy glaze.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Extra-firm tofu creates the crispiest texture.
- Press tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture before cooking.
- Tamari can be used for a gluten-free version.
- The tofu can be baked or air-fried instead of pan-fried.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
