Name: Glazed Crispy Tofu with Savory Soy-Ginger Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp neutral oil (e.g., canola or avocado oil); 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tsp sesame oil (optional); Sesame seeds; Chopped green onions

Description

This glazed tofu recipe features crispy pan-fried tofu cubes coated in a savory and slightly sweet glaze made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger. It’s a quick and satisfying plant-based dish, perfect for lunch or dinner, delivering a flavorful combination of textures and umami-rich taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu

1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp neutral oil (e.g., canola or avocado oil)

Glaze

2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

Garnish

Sesame seeds
Chopped green onions

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Instructions

Press the Tofu: Press the tofu for 15–30 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a crispier texture when cooked.
Coat with Cornstarch: Cut the tofu into cubes and toss them with cornstarch until lightly and evenly coated to create a crispy exterior.
Pan-fry Tofu: Heat the neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and fry them until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the optional sesame oil and sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Make the Glaze: Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup or brown sugar to the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Coat Tofu with Glaze: Return the crispy tofu cubes to the pan and gently toss them in the glaze to ensure an even coating.
Serve: Serve the glazed tofu hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.

Notes

Pressing tofu properly is essential to remove moisture for better frying results.
If you prefer a sweeter glaze, adjust maple syrup or brown sugar to taste.
Use neutral oils with high smoke points for frying, such as canola or avocado oil.
Optional sesame oil adds a nutty aroma but can be omitted if preferred.
For a gluten-free version, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
Serve over rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.