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An extreme close-up shot of a piece of crispy honey garlic tofu being held up by chopsticks, showcasing the perfectly crunchy texture and the thick, glossy sauce.

Crispy Honey Garlic Tofu: The Ultimate Guide to Better-Than-Takeout Results

Achieve unbelievably crispy tofu tossed in a sticky, addictive honey garlic sauce. This easy, better-than-takeout recipe is ready in under 40 minutes and is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Fusion
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz extra-firm tofu pressed for at least 30 minutes and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil or other high-smoke-point oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Wok
  • 1 Tofu Press (or heavy object)

Method
 

  1. Place the tofu block on a plate lined with paper towels. Cover with more paper towels and place a heavy object on top. Press for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. In a mixing bowl, season the cubes with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of cornstarch and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
  3. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu in a single layer and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set on a wire rack.
  4. In the same skillet over medium heat, cook the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, bringing it to a simmer.
  5. Whisk 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to make a slurry. Pour into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the sesame oil.
  6. Return the crispy tofu to the skillet. Gently toss to coat the tofu completely in the sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve immediately.

Notes

For the crispiest results, do not skip pressing the tofu.
Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying; work in batches if necessary.
Reheat leftovers in an air fryer or skillet to revive their crispiness.