
This Crispy Sticky Tofu is the ultimate plant-based comfort food! Crispy golden tofu bites are tossed in a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sauce that’s packed with umami flavor. It’s easy to make, naturally vegan, and perfect for meal prep. Serve it with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies for a delicious and satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Flavorful – Perfectly crunchy outside, soft inside
✔ Easy to Make – No deep frying needed!
✔ High-Protein & Vegan – A delicious plant-based alternative
✔ Customizable – Adjust the spice level and sweetness to your liking
Ingredients
For the Crispy Tofu
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed & cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for crispiness)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp oil (for pan-frying)
For the Sticky Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for extra umami)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
For Garnish
- Sliced green onions
- Extra sesame seeds
How to Make Crispy Sticky Tofu
Step 1: Prep & Cook the Tofu
- Press the tofu using a tofu press or by wrapping it in paper towels and placing a heavy object on top for 15 minutes.
- Cut into bite-sized cubes and toss with cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook tofu until golden and crispy, flipping to brown all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sticky Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat the sauce in a pan over medium heat, then add the cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened.
Step 3: Toss & Serve
- Add the crispy tofu back into the pan and toss until fully coated in the sticky sauce.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions.
Step 4: Enjoy!
- Serve hot over rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables!
Serving Ideas & Variations
🥦 Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
🔥 Make it Spicy: Add extra sriracha or chili flakes for heat.
🍍 Sweet & Tangy: Stir in pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
🍚 Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
🧊 Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheat: Pan-fry for best crispiness or microwave for convenience.
❄️ Freeze: Not recommended, as tofu can change texture when frozen.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 240
- Carbs: 25g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 10g
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