Ingredients
Tofu
- 14 ounces extra firm tofu, pressed and sliced into 1″ cubes
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon fine kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste
Teriyaki Sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable or sesame oil
- 1/3 cup finely chopped scallions, divided
- 2 teaspoons minced or grated garlic
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh grated or minced ginger
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 1/2 teaspoon white sesame seeds
For Serving
- White rice
- Steamed broccoli or another vegetable of choice
Instructions
- Press and Prepare Tofu: Begin by pressing the extra firm tofu to remove excess moisture, then slice it into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Coat Tofu: In a medium bowl, sprinkle 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and black pepper over the tofu cubes. Toss gently to coat all sides evenly with the cornstarch mixture.
- Pan-Fry Tofu: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable or canola oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu cubes in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Teriyaki Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable or sesame oil and sauté 1/3 cup of chopped scallions, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, and 1 1/2 teaspoons grated ginger over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: Add 1/2 cup water, 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari, 2 tablespoons mirin, 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar to the skillet. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Toss Tofu in Sauce: Return the crispy tofu cubes to the skillet and gently toss to coat them fully in the teriyaki sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons white sesame seeds and the remaining chopped scallions over the tofu. Serve hot with steamed white rice and your choice of steamed vegetables like broccoli for a complete meal.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu removes excess water and helps it achieve a crispier texture when pan-fried.
- Use low sodium soy sauce or tamari to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure tamari is gluten-free and use gluten-free mirin or omit it.
- If you prefer a sweeter teriyaki, adjust the brown sugar to taste.
- Leftover tofu teriyaki keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegan