Crispy honey garlic tofu recipe that will amaze you! This dish is crunchy on the outside and soft inside. The sauce is sweet, garlicky, and sticky. It is quick to make and very tasty. You can make it for a fast weeknight meal or for guests.
Why make this recipe
The taste is bold but simple. It uses few ingredients and gives big flavor. If you like easy weeknight meals and want something meat-free, this fits. If you like quick dinners like quick and easy meat recipes, you’ll enjoy how fast this comes together.
How to prepare Crispy honey garlic tofu recipe that will amaze you!
Start by draining and pressing the tofu to remove water. Cut it into even cubes so they cook the same. Mix the sauce in a small bowl. Coat each cube in cornstarch. Fry the cubes until they are golden and crisp. Drain the fried tofu on paper towel. Heat the sauce in the same pan for a minute, then toss the tofu in the sauce to coat.
Ingredients:
- Firm tofu: 400 grams (14 oz)
- Honey: 4 tablespoons (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Cornstarch: 1/2 cup
- Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons
- Green onions: 2, chopped
- Sesame seeds: 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable oil: for frying (about 1 cup)
Steps:
- Drain the firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture for 15-20 minutes.
- Cut the pressed tofu into uniform bite-sized cubes.
- In a small bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create the honey garlic sauce.
- Coat each tofu cube evenly in cornstarch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the fried tofu and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Return the skillet to medium heat, pour in the honey garlic sauce, and let it simmer for about a minute.
- Add the crispy tofu to the sauce and gently toss to coat evenly.
How to serve Crispy honey garlic tofu recipe that will amaze you!
Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or a bed of greens. Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. You can add a side of steamed broccoli or a simple salad. Eat with chopsticks or a fork.
How to store Crispy honey garlic tofu recipe that will amaze you!
Cool the tofu to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep it crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want it crunchy.
Tips to make Crispy honey garlic tofu recipe that will amaze you perfectly
- Press the tofu well so it gets crispy.
- Cut cubes the same size for even cooking.
- Don’t crowd the pan when frying. Fry in batches if needed.
- Use medium-high heat so the tofu browns fast.
- Add the sauce last and toss gently to keep the crisp outside.
Variations
- Vegan: use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Baked: toss cornstarch-coated tofu in oil and bake at 220°C (425°F) for 25-30 minutes, flipping once.
- Spicy: add a teaspoon of chili paste or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Nutty: stir in a spoon of peanut butter into the sauce for a richer flavor.
FAQ
Q: Can I use soft tofu?
A: No. Use firm tofu. Soft tofu breaks apart and won’t get crispy.
Q: How do I press tofu without a press?
A: Wrap tofu in a clean towel. Put a heavy pan or cans on top. Leave for 15-20 minutes.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce and keep it in the fridge for 2-3 days. Warm it before adding to the pan.
Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A quick and delicious crispy honey garlic tofu dish that’s crunchy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 400 grams (14 oz) firm tofu
- 4 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- About 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Drain the firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture for 15-20 minutes.
- Cut the pressed tofu into uniform bite-sized cubes.
- In a small bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create the honey garlic sauce.
- Coat each tofu cube evenly in cornstarch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the fried tofu and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Return the skillet to medium heat, pour in the honey garlic sauce, and let it simmer for about a minute.
- Add the crispy tofu to the sauce and gently toss to coat evenly.
Notes
Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or a bed of greens. For added flavor, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian