Crispy Garlic Soy Tofu

ByHannah Peterson

Crispy Garlic Soy Tofu: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite! ✨🍽️

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside — this Garlic Soy Tofu will make you fall in love with tofu all over again! 💚

This recipe takes humble tofu to the next level with a perfectly sticky, savory-sweet garlic soy glaze. It’s fast, flavorful, and packed with plant-based protein — perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

💚 Why You’ll Love It

  • 100% vegan and gluten-free adaptable
  • Crispy edges, juicy center — tofu perfection!
  • Packed with umami flavor from soy sauce and garlic
  • Easy 20-minute recipe
  • Great with rice, noodles, or veggies

🥣 Ingredients

For the Tofu:

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or avocado oil)

For the Garlic Soy Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave
  • 2 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional for extra zing)
  • ½ tsp chili flakes or sriracha (optional)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prep the tofu:
    • Press tofu for 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
    • Cut into cubes and toss in cornstarch and 1 tbsp soy sauce until coated.
  2. Crisp it up:
    • Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
    • Pan-fry tofu cubes until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the sauce:
    • In the same pan, add garlic (and ginger, if using) and sauté for 30 seconds.
    • Add soy sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, and chili flakes.
    • Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  4. Combine:
    • Toss tofu back into the pan and coat evenly with the sauce.
    • Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.

🍚 Serving Ideas

  • Serve with steamed rice and broccoli for a balanced meal
  • Add to noodle bowls or lettuce wraps
  • Pair with pickled veggies for a fusion-style twist

🌿 Tips

  • For ultra-crispy tofu, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes instead of pan-frying.
  • Double the sauce if you love extra flavor to drizzle over rice!
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days — just reheat in a skillet to re-crisp.

This Crispy Garlic Soy Tofu is the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and spicy — a quick vegan meal that hits every craving! 🧄🥢

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