Description
This Honey Garlic Tofu is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a glossy, sticky-sweet sauce that tastes better than takeout. It’s quick, comforting, protein-packed, and perfect for weeknight dinners, bowls, or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Tofu
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14 oz (400g) extra-firm tofu, pressed
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2–3 tablespoons cornstarch
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1–2 tablespoons oil (for pan-frying or air-frying)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
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3 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
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½ teaspoon grated ginger
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Sesame seeds and scallions for topping
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Lime wedge or chili oil (optional)
Instructions
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Prep the tofu:
Press the tofu for 10–15 minutes to remove moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes and pat dry. -
Coat the tofu:
Toss tofu cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. -
Cook the tofu:
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Pan-fry: Heat oil in a non-stick skillet and cook tofu until golden and crispy on all sides.
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Air fry: Spray tofu lightly with oil and air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway.
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Bake: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once.
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Make the sauce:
In a small pan, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Simmer gently until slightly thickened. -
Combine:
Add the crispy tofu to the pan and toss until every piece is coated in the sticky honey garlic glaze. -
Serve:
Enjoy with rice, noodles, veggies, or as part of a bowl.
Notes
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For vegan version: replace honey with maple syrup or agave.
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For gluten-free version: use tamari instead of soy sauce.
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Do not overcook the garlic or the honey — low to medium heat gives the best flavor.
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Pressing the tofu is key for crispiness; skip this step only if using extra-firm tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg (varies by soy sauce)
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 0mg