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Crispy Tofu with Spicy Garlic Sauce over Rice

Crispy pan-fried tofu cubes tossed in a bold and spicy garlic sauce, served over fluffy rice for a satisfying plant-based meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 14 oz (400 g) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp chili paste (such as sambal oelek or gochujang)
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 2 scallions, sliced
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Press tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut into cubes.
  2. Toss tofu with cornstarch until evenly coated.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Pour into skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Return tofu to the pan and toss until coated in the sauce.
  7. Serve tofu over cooked rice, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, bake tofu at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes instead of pan-frying.
  • Adjust spice level by using more or less chili paste.
  • Great with steamed broccoli or bok choy as a side.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy tofu, spicy garlic sauce, tofu rice bowl, vegan Asian recipe