Honey Garlic Tofu-Easy Delicious Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly delicious and unbelievably easy Honey Garlic Tofu recipe! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful plant-based meal prep, this dish brings together crispy tofu coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze that will have your taste buds singing. It’s a flavorful explosion that proves healthy eating can be utterly satisfying!
Ingredients
- 1 block (14-16 oz) extra-firm or super-firm tofu, pressed and drained
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as vegetable, canola, or sesame)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons water or vegetable broth
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Garnish: Sliced green onions, sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Press the Tofu: If using extra-firm tofu, press it for at least 20-30 minutes to remove excess water. You can use a tofu press or wrap the block in paper towels, place it on a plate, and top with something heavy (like a cast-iron skillet or books).
- Cut and Prepare Tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into 3/4-inch to 1-inch cubes. Pat them dry again with paper towels if needed.
- Cook the Tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. 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.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, 1/4 cup water/broth, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using).
- Thicken the Sauce: In a separate tiny bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water until smooth to create a slurry.
- Combine and Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the honey garlic sauce into the same skillet (no need to clean it). Bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Tofu Back: Return the cooked tofu cubes to the skillet. Toss gently to coat all the tofu pieces evenly with the sticky sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to glaze the tofu.
- Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice, quinoa, or with roasted vegetables.
