Honey Garlic Tofu – Quick & Easy Recipe

Craving a dish that’s both sweet and savory, incredibly satisfying, and super simple to make? This Honey Garlic Tofu recipe is your new weeknight hero! With crispy pan-fried tofu coated in a sticky, irresistible honey garlic sauce, it’s a plant-based meal that comes together in a flash and bursts with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm or super-firm tofu
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (for tofu coating)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp water or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cornstarch (for sauce)
• For Garnish: Sesame seeds and sliced green onions

Instructions

1. **Press the Tofu:** Remove tofu from packaging and drain excess water. Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and place a heavy object on top (like a cast iron pan or books) for at least 20-30 minutes to press out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for crispy tofu!
2. **Cut the Tofu:** Once pressed, cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes.
3. **Coat the Tofu:** In a medium bowl, toss the tofu cubes with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help them get nice and crispy when cooked.
4. **Cook the Tofu:** Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding) and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove the cooked tofu from the skillet and set aside.
5. **Prepare the Sauce:** While the tofu cooks or immediately after, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of water/broth, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth.
6. **Combine and Thicken:** Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet (no need to clean it). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 1-2 minutes.
7. **Add Tofu Back:** Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and toss gently to coat thoroughly with the sticky honey garlic sauce.
8. **Serve:** Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice, quinoa, or with your favorite stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor and presentation.