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Spicy Crispy Tofu


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 servings 1x

Description

This Spicy Crispy Tofu is packed with flavor and the perfect balance of crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Coated with a flavorful spicy sauce, this tofu makes a great vegan main or a flavorful addition to salads, bowls, or wraps. Quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 block firm tofu (14 oz), drained and pressed

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Spicy Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

  • 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave (for sweetness)

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

  • 1/2 tsp grated ginger (optional, for extra flavor)

For Garnish (optional):

  • Sesame seeds

  • Green onions (sliced)

  • Fresh cilantro


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tofu:
    Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, then place a heavy object (like a can or book) on top for about 15-20 minutes to press out the water. Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.

  2. Coat the Tofu:
    In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture, making sure they are evenly coated on all sides.

  3. Fry the Tofu:
    Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes in a single layer. Fry the tofu for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once crispy, transfer the tofu to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

  4. Prepare the Spicy Sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili flakes, and grated ginger until well combined.

  5. Toss the Tofu in the Sauce:
    Once the tofu is crispy, add it to the pan with the spicy sauce. Gently toss to coat the tofu in the sauce, ensuring it’s well covered. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and glaze the tofu.

  6. Serve:
    Transfer the spicy crispy tofu to a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve on its own, over rice, or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture so that it crisps up perfectly when frying.

  • Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice tolerance. You can also add a little more maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.

  • For a different flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice or top with chopped peanuts for extra texture.

 

  • To make this a complete meal, serve the tofu over a bed of steamed rice with sautéed veggies.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Vegan, Dinner, Stir-fry
  • Method: Pan-frying
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (assuming 3 servings)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0g