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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
