Easy Honey Garlic Tofu: Whether you’re new to tofu or a longtime fan, this honey garlic tofu recipe is a must-try. The crispy tofu and sticky sweet and spicy honey garlic sauce create an irresistible pairing, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home.
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Ingredients You'll Need
For the full measurements, scroll down to the recipe card below.
Firm tofu: Press the tofu first to remove excess moisture—this helps it get crispier when fried and absorb flavors better. I prefer firm tofu, but extra firm works too. Avoid soft or silken tofu, as they’re too delicate for this recipe.
Green onion: The white parts add depth when sautéed, while the green parts bring a fresh pop of flavor at the end.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must for that deep, savory aroma.
Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): I love adding this for a gentle heat and smoky depth. You can adjust the spiciness of the dish by adding more or less gochugaru. If you want an extra kick, a drizzle of sriracha works beautifully alongside it. You can also swap gochugaru with chili flakes or chili powder.
Honey: Sticky and rich, it helps the sauce coat the tofu evenly while adding a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Regular soy sauce: Brings umami and just the right amount of saltiness. Substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten free version.
Oyster sauce: Enhances the umami depth with a touch of sweetness. Regular oyster sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, and mushroom oyster sauce all work in this recipe. Use whichever suits your preference.
Cornstarch: My go-to for getting tofu perfectly crispy while also helping the sauce cling to each piece. Alternatively, you can use potato starch for a similar crunch.
Salt: I season lightly since soy sauce and oyster sauce add saltiness. Always taste and adjust as needed.
Cooking oil: Choose a neutral tasting oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil for frying, as it gives the tofu a crisp texture without overpowering the flavors.
Toasted sesame seeds – A final sprinkle adds a nutty aroma and slight crunch.
Instructions (Step By Step)
1. Drain the tofu: If using a tofu press, press out excess moisture. Otherwise, wrap the tofu block in paper towels, place it on a flat surface, and gently press or weigh it down with a heavy object (like a cast iron pan) for 15–30 minutes.
2. Cut and coat the tofu: Slice the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry lightly, season with salt, and coat evenly with cornstarch.
3. Pan-fry the tofu: Heat oil in a pan over high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for a few minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside.
4. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, ⅓ teaspoon cornstarch, and water until combined. Set aside.
5. Saute the aromatics: In the same pan, leave a little oil and heat over medium heat. Add the white parts of the green onion and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant. Add gochugaru and stir briefly.
6. Simmer the sauce: Pour in the prepared sauce and let it cook for a minute until slightly thickened.
7. Toss the tofu: Add the crispy tofu cubes and toss gently to coat them evenly in the sauce. Turn off the flame.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with the green parts of the green onion and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Recipe Tips
Use enough cornstarch: A light, even coating makes the tofu crispier. Shake off any excess to prevent clumping.
Fry in batches: Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature, making the tofu less crispy.
Don’t flip too soon: Let the tofu cook undisturbed for a minute before flipping to develop a golden crust.
What to serve it with
This sweet and savory tofu pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or salads, and can even be used in wraps. For a complete meal, serve it with Panda Express-style fried rice and a side of Asian cucumber salad. Asian stir-fried broccoli or spinach stir fry with garlic would also be delicious additions.
You can also serve it on its own as a party snack for game night.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
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If you try the recipe, please take a moment to leave a comment and rating. I love hearing from you and it also helps other readers who are thinking of making the recipe.
Recipe
Easy Honey Garlic Tofu (Sweet and Spicy)
Ingredients
- 7 oz 200g firm tofu, drained and cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 green onion chopped (white and green parts separated)
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon gochugaru Korean chili flakes
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- salt to taste
- ¼ cup vegetable oil for cooking
- toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the tofu: If using a tofu press, press out excess moisture. Otherwise, wrap the tofu block in paper towels, place it on a flat surface, and gently press or weigh it down with a heavy object (like a cast iron pan) for 15–30 minutes.
- Cut and coat the tofu: Slice the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry lightly, season with salt, and coat evenly with cornstarch.
- Pan-fry the tofu: Heat oil in a pan over high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry for a few minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, ⅓ teaspoon cornstarch and water until combined. Set aside.
- Saute the aromatics: In the same pan, leave a little oil and heat over medium heat. Add the white parts of the green onion and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant. Add gochugaru and stir briefly.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in the prepared sauce and let it cook for a minute until slightly thickened.
- Toss the tofu: Add the crispy tofu cubes and toss gently to coat them evenly in the sauce. Turn off the flame.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with the green parts of the green onion and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition Disclaimer:
Nutrition information is a general estimate only. Actual values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate information, please consult a registered dietitian or use your preferred nutrition calculator.
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