Why Make This Recipe
Crispy honey garlic tofu is a fantastic dish for anyone looking for a delicious plant-based meal. It’s not only tasty, but it’s also easy to make. The combination of crispy tofu coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce creates a dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for any night of the week.
How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu
Ingredients
- Firm tofu: 400 grams (14 oz)
- Honey: 4 tablespoons (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Cornstarch: 1/2 cup
- Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons
- Green onions: 2, chopped
- Sesame seeds: 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable oil: for frying (about 1 cup)
Directions
- Drain the firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture for 15-20 minutes.
- Cut the pressed tofu into uniform bite-sized cubes.
- In a small bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create the honey garlic sauce.
- Coat each tofu cube evenly in cornstarch.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the fried tofu and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Return the skillet to medium heat, pour in the honey garlic sauce, and let it simmer for about a minute.
- Add the crispy tofu to the sauce and gently toss to coat evenly.
How to Serve Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu
You can serve crispy honey garlic tofu as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with steamed rice or noodles and is great with stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
How to Store Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu
To store any leftovers, let the tofu cool completely. Place the crispy tofu in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can reheat it in the oven or skillet for the best texture.
Tips to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu
- Make sure to press the tofu well to get rid of excess moisture, which helps in achieving extra crispiness.
- Use a non-stick skillet for frying to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- For an extra crunch, you can double coat the tofu by dipping it in cornstarch again before frying.
Variation
You can modify this recipe by adding different vegetables or using different sauces. Try adding broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious twist. You can use soy sauce alternatives for gluten-free options.
FAQs
Q: Can I use soft tofu for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use firm tofu to ensure it holds its shape and gets crispy. Soft tofu may fall apart easily.
Q: Is there a vegan option for the honey?
A: Yes! You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a fully vegan option without compromising on flavor.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the honey garlic sauce for an added kick.
Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu
Ingredients
Tofu Preparation
- 400 grams Firm tofu
- 1 cup Vegetable oil For frying
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons Honey Substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sesame oil
Coating and Garnish
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch
- 2 Green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Sesame seeds
Instructions
Preparation
- Drain the firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture for 15-20 minutes.
- Cut the pressed tofu into uniform bite-sized cubes.
- In a small bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create the honey garlic sauce.
- Coat each tofu cube evenly in cornstarch.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the fried tofu and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Return the skillet to medium heat, pour in the honey garlic sauce, and let it simmer for about a minute.
- Add the crispy tofu to the sauce and gently toss to coat evenly.