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An extreme close-up of golden-brown crispy tofu cubes in a pan. The texture is perfectly crunchy, showcasing the result of the easy tofu stir-fry method.
FL Recipes

Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Texture

This Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu is the perfect weeknight meal! Learn the secrets to achieving an unbelievably crunchy exterior with a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

For the Crispy Tofu
  • 16 oz extra-firm tofu pressed for at least 30 minutes and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil or other high-heat neutral oil, divided
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
  • 1/3 cup honey use maple syrup for a vegan option
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water to create a slurry

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Tofu Press (or heavy object)
  • 2 Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. Ensure your tofu is well-pressed. In a medium bowl, toss the tofu cubes with 1/4 cup cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat 2 tbsp of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the tofu in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed). Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Whisk in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce, whisking constantly. Let it bubble for 1-2 minutes until it thickens into a glaze.
  6. Return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the tofu is fully coated in the sticky honey garlic sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcalProtein: 18gFat: 22gFiber: 2g

Notes

Pressing Tofu is Key: Do not skip this step! The less water in your tofu, the crispier it will get.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Frying the tofu in a single layer with space between pieces ensures all sides get crispy.
Vegan Option: Easily make this recipe vegan by swapping the honey for maple syrup.
Keyword crispy tofu,honey garlic,vegetarian main

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