Extra-Crispy Tofu with Sticky Garlic–Soy Glaze
  • Dinner

Extra-Crispy Tofu with Sticky Garlic–Soy Glaze

Crispy on the outside, tender inside, glossy and savory. Serves 2–3 as a main or 3–4 as a side.

This tofu dish is crispy on the outside and tender inside, with a glossy, savory garlic-soy glaze.

2 servings

~50 min

Ingredients

Tofu

  • Extra Firm Tofu400 g

Pre-coat

  • Soy Sauce1 tsp
  • Avocado Oil1 tsp

Crispy coating

  • Cornstarch3 tbsp
  • Onion Powder1 tsp
  • Garlic Powder1 tsp
  • Fine Salt½ tsp
  • Black Pepper, to tasteto taste
  • Baking Powder optional½ tsp

For frying

  • Avocado Oil, as needed2–3 tbsp

Steam finish

  • Water1–2 tbsp

Sticky Garlic–Soy Glaze

  • Soy Sauce2 tbsp
  • Rice Vinegar, or lime juice1 tbsp
  • Honey, adjust to taste1½–2 tbsp
  • Water1 tbsp
  • Sesame Oil, finishing oil1 tsp
  • Garlic, grated2 tsp
  • Cornstarch optional1 tsp
  • Water optional1 tbsp

Instructions

  1. Press the Tofu

    Drain the tofu. Wrap in a clean towel or paper towels. Place on a plate, add a second plate on top, and weight it. Press for 15–30 minutes. Shortcut: Microwave the tofu for 2 minutes, then blot very dry.

  2. Cut and Blot Tofu

    Cut tofu into cubes or tear into rough chunks. Blot once more. The drier it is, the better it crisps.

  3. Mix Dry Coating

    In a bowl, mix cornstarch, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and baking powder (if using). Set aside.

  4. Coat the Tofu

    Put tofu in a large bowl. Add soy sauce and avocado oil. Toss gently until lightly glossy. Sprinkle over the dry coating and toss until every piece is evenly dusted. Let rest for 5 minutes.

  5. Brown the Tofu

    Heat a wide pan over medium-high. Add avocado oil. Add tofu in a single layer with space between pieces. Do not move for 2–3 minutes. Flip and brown other sides until deeply golden and crisp, 10–14 minutes total.

  6. Steam and Re-crisp Tofu

    Turn heat down to medium or medium-low. Add water. Immediately cover the pan. Keep heat on for 30–45 seconds. Uncover, turn heat back to medium-high, and cook until all moisture evaporates and the tofu re-crisps, 30–60 seconds.

  7. Prepare the Glaze

    In a small pan or bowl, combine all glaze ingredients except the slurry. Simmer gently for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. If thickening, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until glossy, 10–15 seconds. Remove from heat.

  8. Glaze the Tofu

    Turn heat off under the tofu. Pour glaze over tofu. Toss gently for 10–15 seconds, just until coated and glossy.

  9. Serve and Garnish

    Serve immediately. Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced scallions, or lime zest or juice.

Key Notes

Avocado oil does the frying; sesame oil finishes. Steam only after browning. Toss with sauce off heat. If it sounds loud and happy in the pan, you’re doing it right.

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