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To make crispy honey garlic tofu, you will need the following ingredients: - 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, thoroughly pressed and cut into cubes - 1/4 cup cornstarch - 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying) - 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup (for a vegan alternative) - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) - Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish) These ingredients combine to create a sweet and savory dish. The tofu will be crispy, and the sauce will add depth to each bite. For tofu, I often use brands like Nasoya or House Foods. They are known for their firm texture and quality. For soy sauce, Kikkoman is a classic choice. If you prefer low-sodium options, look for Tamari. For honey, I recommend a local, raw honey or organic brands like Manuka. If you need a vegan option, use agave syrup from brands like Wholesome Sweeteners. To make this dish vegan, simply swap honey for agave syrup. You can also use tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free option. If you want a different taste, try maple syrup as a sweetener. For the sesame oil, look for brands that use pure ingredients. These substitutions will still give you a tasty dish that everyone will enjoy. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, you need to press the tofu. This step helps remove excess moisture. Place the tofu block between two plates. Add a weight on top. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This step is important for a crisp texture. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. Next, grab a shallow bowl. Pour in the cornstarch. Roll the tofu cubes in the cornstarch until coated. Each piece should have a light dusting. Now, it’s time to fry the tofu! Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers. Carefully place the coated tofu in a single layer. You may need to work in batches. Fry the tofu for 3-5 minutes on each side. Turn until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to check the crispiness. Once done, transfer the tofu to a plate lined with paper towels. This step removes excess oil. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in sesame oil first. Then add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté these for about 1 minute. You want them fragrant, not browned. Next, pour in soy sauce and honey. Stir well to blend the flavors. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. This will thicken the sauce slightly. Now, add the crispy tofu back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat each piece in the sauce. Cook for another minute to meld the flavors. To achieve the best texture for your tofu, follow these steps: - Press the Tofu: Start by pressing the tofu for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess moisture. - Use Firm Tofu: Always choose firm tofu. It holds its shape well during cooking. - Coat Evenly: Roll the cubed tofu in cornstarch. Make sure each piece is well covered. This helps create a crispy crust. Soggy tofu can ruin your dish. Here’s how to fix it: - Too Much Moisture: Press the tofu longer to remove more water. - Not Enough Heat: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding tofu. It should shimmer. - Crowding the Pan: Fry tofu in small batches. Overcrowding can trap steam and make it soggy. You can enhance the flavors of your crispy honey garlic tofu in several ways: - Add Chili Flakes: For a bit of heat, sprinkle chili flakes into your sauce. - Use Fresh Herbs: Try adding fresh basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness. - Mix in Nuts: Add chopped peanuts or cashews for crunch and extra flavor. These tips will help you make the best crispy honey garlic tofu every time! Pro Tips Pressing Tofu: Pressing the tofu for at least 30 minutes removes excess moisture, which is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture. Coating Technique: Ensure the tofu is evenly coated in cornstarch; this will help create a crunchy exterior when frying. Oil Temperature: Make sure the vegetable oil is hot enough before adding the tofu. If it's too cool, the tofu will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor dimension, try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a sweet and spicy kick. {{image_4}} You can switch up the sauce for new tastes. Try teriyaki for a sweet and savory flavor. Mix soy sauce, mirin, and sugar for a quick teriyaki sauce. If you want a kick, go for a spicy sauce. Add sriracha or chili paste to the honey garlic mix. This gives your dish a fun twist! Adding veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. You can toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Simply sauté them in the same pan after cooking the tofu. This keeps the meal colorful and healthy. You can also use carrots or zucchini for extra crunch. Feel free to experiment with any veggie you like! Serve your crispy tofu over rice or noodles for a filling meal. Jasmine rice or brown rice pairs well with the sweet sauce. If you prefer noodles, try soba or rice noodles. You can also wrap the tofu in lettuce for a fresh, crunchy bite. Add some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a brighter taste! After making crispy honey garlic tofu, you might have some leftovers. To keep them fresh, store the tofu in an airtight container. This helps maintain its flavor. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. To reheat your crispy honey garlic tofu, use an oven or a skillet. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tofu on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until it gets crispy again. If using a skillet, add a little oil and heat over medium heat. Stir the tofu occasionally for even reheating. If you want to freeze the tofu, do so before adding the sauce. Wrap the cooked tofu tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it and add your sauce. To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a great substitute. It has a similar taste but does not contain gluten. You can also check the cornstarch to ensure it is certified gluten-free. This small change keeps the crispy honey garlic tofu just as tasty and safe for gluten-free diets. Yes, you can prep tofu ahead of time. Press and cube the tofu, then coat it in cornstarch. Store the coated tofu in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, just fry it as usual. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick meal on busy days. Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated tofu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This gives you a crispy texture without all the oil. You still get that delicious honey garlic flavor! You now have all the steps to make crispy honey garlic tofu. We covered the best ingredients, cooking techniques, and tips for perfect texture. You learned how to customize the dish with different sauces and veggies. Proper storage helps keep leftovers fresh. Don't hesitate to experiment and try new flavors. Enjoy your cooking journey and make this dish your own!

Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu Delight

A delicious and crispy tofu dish coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 14 oz firm tofu, thoroughly pressed and cut into cubes
  • 0.25 cup cornstarch
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 0.25 cup honey or agave syrup (for a vegan alternative)
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 pieces green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Tofu: Begin by pressing the tofu for at least 30 minutes to eliminate excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture in the final dish.
  • Cube the Tofu: After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a shallow bowl, place the cornstarch. Gently roll the tofu cubes in the cornstarch until they are evenly coated, ensuring each piece is well covered.
  • Fry the Tofu: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Fry them for approximately 3-5 minutes on each side, turning until they are golden brown and crispy all around.
  • Drain the Tofu: When the tofu is perfectly crispy, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  • Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sesame oil and then the minced garlic along with the grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics for about 1 minute, just until they become fragrant but not browned.
  • Combine Ingredients: Pour in the soy sauce and honey (or agave syrup), stirring well to blend the flavors. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1-2 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
  • Coat the Tofu: Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet, carefully tossing to ensure each piece is coated in the honey garlic sauce. Allow it to cook for another minute to let the flavors meld beautifully.
  • Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy honey garlic tofu to a serving dish.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with sliced green onions and a handful of toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

For an attractive and wholesome meal, serve the crispy tofu atop a bed of fluffy steamed rice or quinoa. Accompany with vibrant steamed broccoli or bok choy on the side.
Keyword honey garlic, tofu, vegan