Crispy Sticky Tofu Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Sticky Tofu is a delicious plant-based dish that combines golden, crunchy tofu with a sweet and spicy glaze. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients

• 11 oz (300 g) extra firm tofu
• 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1-2 garlic cloves, grated
• ½ tablespoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 4 tablespoons corn starch (1 tablespoon used in marinade)
• 3-4 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons oil
• Garnish: sesame seeds or chopped green onions

Instructions

1. Step 1: Drain and press the tofu using a tofu press or wrap it in a clean tea towel with something heavy on top to remove excess water.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the sweet soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated garlic, red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon corn starch, and 3 tablespoons water. Stir well to mix.
3. Step 3: Slice the tofu into triangles or cubes, then coat each piece evenly with the remaining corn starch.
4. Step 4: Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch, and pan-fry for a few minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
5. Step 5: Pour the marinade into the hot pan—it will bubble immediately. Quickly turn the tofu pieces to coat them evenly in the glaze. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

Tips & Variations

• Pressing the tofu well ensures maximum crispiness—consider pressing for at least 15 minutes if you have time.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
• Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat to help maintain crispiness. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can make the tofu soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft tofu instead of extra firm?

Extra firm tofu works best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps up well. Soft tofu is too delicate and may break apart during cooking.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan if you use a sweet soy sauce or tamari that contains no animal products. Double-check your sauce labels if needed.

Crispy Sticky Tofu Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 50 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

This Crispy Sticky Tofu recipe features golden, pan-fried tofu coated in a flavorful sweet soy and garlic marinade with a hint of spicy red pepper flakes. Perfectly crispy on the outside and sticky with a savory glaze, it’s a quick and delicious plant-based dish ideal for a light meal or appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Tofu

• 11 oz (300 g) extra firm tofu

Marinade & Coating

• 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1–2 garlic cloves, grated
• ½ tablespoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference)
• 4 tablespoons corn starch (1 tablespoon used in marinade, remainder for coating)
• 3–4 tablespoons water

Cooking

• 3 tablespoons oil (for frying)

Garnish

• Sesame seeds or chopped green onions

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Instructions

1. Press the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it using a tofu press or by wrapping it in a clean tea towel and placing a heavy object on top. This step removes excess moisture, ensuring the tofu crisps well during cooking.
2. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl or ramekin, combine the sweet soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated garlic, and red pepper flakes. Add 1 tablespoon of corn starch and 3 tablespoons of water, then stir or whisk until smooth and combined.
3. Coat the Tofu: Slice the pressed tofu into triangles or cubes. Coat the tofu pieces evenly with the remaining corn starch to help achieve a crispy crust when cooked.
4. Pan Fry the Tofu: Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the tofu pieces in a single layer without overcrowding or touching each other. Fry each side for a few minutes until golden brown and crispy.
5. Glaze with Marinade: Pour the prepared marinade into the pan with the tofu. The sauce will bubble up immediately. Quickly turn the tofu pieces to coat them evenly in the sticky sauce. Once fully glazed and slightly thickened, transfer the tofu to a serving dish.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions over the tofu before serving. Enjoy your crispy and sticky tofu immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Pressing the tofu thoroughly is key to achieving crispiness; avoid skipping this step.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on your desired spice level.
• Use a non-stick pan to prevent tofu from sticking during frying.
• Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the tofu’s crisp texture before it softens.
• This recipe pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Keywords: crispy tofu, sticky tofu, pan-fried tofu, vegan tofu recipe, Asian tofu dish