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Spicy Crispy Tofu

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Spicy Crispy Tofu is the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. This plant-based recipe transforms simple tofu into a crispy, golden delight, coated in a spicy, tangy sauce that keeps you coming back for more. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and a great option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Packed with bold, spicy flavor
  • Delightfully crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
  • Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
  • Great for vegetarians and vegans
  • Perfect for meal prep and reheating
  • Customizable heat level to suit your taste
  • Can be served with rice, noodles, or in wraps
  • Gluten-free adaptable
  • Ready in under 30 minutes
  • A satisfying, protein-rich plant-based meal

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Firm or extra-firm tofu
  • Cornstarch
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce
  • Rice vinegar
  • Maple syrup or brown sugar
  • Garlic, minced
  • Ginger, minced
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

directions

this recipe
  1. Press the tofu to remove excess water by wrapping it in paper towels and placing a heavy object on top for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
  3. Toss tofu in cornstarch until evenly coated. This step is key to achieving a crispy texture.
  4. Heat oil in a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 10-12 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  5. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger.
  6. Pour the sauce into the same pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Return the tofu to the pan, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Mild version: Reduce the amount of sriracha or use a mild chili sauce.
  • Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Extra crispy: Bake or air fry the tofu after coating with cornstarch for added crunch.
  • Add veggies: Stir-fry bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to mix in with the tofu.
  • Different sauces: Try tossing the crispy tofu in a teriyaki, orange, or peanut sauce instead.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the tofu crispy, though it will still taste great.

FAQs

How do I make tofu crispy without deep frying?

Tossing tofu in cornstarch and pan-frying in a small amount of oil achieves a crispy texture without deep frying. You can also bake or air fry it for a healthier option.

Can I use soft tofu for this recipe?

Soft tofu is too delicate and won’t hold its shape or crisp up properly. Stick with firm or extra-firm tofu.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the tofu and sauce in advance. Cook just before serving for the best texture.

What oil should I use for frying tofu?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil.

Can I bake the tofu instead of frying?

Yes. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s moderately spicy, but you can adjust the heat by using more or less hot sauce.

What can I serve with spicy crispy tofu?

Serve it with rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or in a wrap or bowl.

Can I freeze cooked tofu?

Yes, though the texture may change slightly. Reheat in the oven or skillet for best results.

Do I need to press the tofu?

Yes. Pressing removes excess moisture, allowing the tofu to get crispy during cooking.

Conclusion

Spicy Crispy Tofu is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just tofu-curious, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and versatility. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their dinner rotation.

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Spicy Crispy Tofu

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2–3 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
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Description

This Spicy Crispy Tofu is golden and crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce that packs just the right amount of heat. It’s perfect as a main dish, over rice or noodles, or served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients

For the Tofu:

  • 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil or any neutral oil

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Spicy Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

Optional Toppings:

  • Green onions, sliced

  • Sesame seeds

  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tofu:
    Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into bite-sized cubes.

  2. Coat and crisp the tofu:
    In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and cornstarch until evenly coated.

  3. Cook the tofu:
    Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and cook the tofu for 3–4 minutes per side until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.

  4. Make the sauce:
    In the same pan, combine all sauce ingredients except the cornstarch slurry. Heat over medium until it starts to bubble. Stir in the slurry and cook for another 1–2 minutes until thickened.

  5. Toss tofu in sauce:
    Return the crispy tofu to the pan and gently toss to coat in the spicy sauce.

  6. Serve:
    Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps.

 

Notes

  • For even crispier tofu, you can air fry or bake the tofu instead of pan-frying.

  • Adjust the sriracha to make it more or less spicy.

  • Add bell peppers or broccoli for a full meal.

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