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Sticky Tofu Recipe

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4.3 from 71 reviews

This Sticky Tofu recipe delivers a flavorful, crispy, and sticky Asian-inspired dish perfect for vegetarians seeking a satisfying meal. The tofu is coated in cornstarch, pan-fried until golden and crisp, then tossed in a sweet and tangy sauce made with soy, garlic, ginger, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. Quick and easy to prepare, it works well as a main or a protein-packed addition to rice or stir-fried vegetables.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 3-4 servings

Ingredients

Tofu Preparation

  • 14 ounces extra firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten free)
  • 2 teaspoons finely minced fresh garlic
  • 1 ½ teaspoons finely minced fresh ginger
  • ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten free)
  • 3 tablespoons agave or honey
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 ½ tablespoons rice vinegar
  • ½ tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Press and Prepare the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess liquid for at least 15 minutes. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. Toss the tofu cubes gently with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Pan-Fry the Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer and fry until golden and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Sauté the finely minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Whisk together ¼ cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons agave or honey, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 2 tablespoons water, 1 ½ tablespoons rice vinegar, and ½ tablespoon cornstarch in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into the pan, add red pepper flakes, and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  4. Toss Tofu in Sauce: Return the crispy tofu cubes to the skillet and gently toss them in the sticky sauce to coat evenly. Cook for another minute to ensure the tofu absorbs the flavors and the sauce clings well.
  5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the sticky tofu hot over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Pressing the tofu properly removes excess moisture for a crispier texture.
  • Adjust the amount of agave or honey to control sweetness as per your taste.
  • Red pepper flakes can be omitted for a milder dish.
  • For gluten free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • This dish reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/sticky-tofu-recipe/