If you think tofu is bland, think again! This Spicy Crispy Tofu is a total game-changer—golden, crunchy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a deliciously spicy glaze that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re a tofu lover or a skeptic, trust me, this recipe will win you over. Serve it with rice, in a wrap, or as a snack—it’s versatile, satisfying, and ridiculously good!
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Why You’ll Love Spicy Crispy Tofu
This recipe isn’t just about crispy tofu—it’s about turning a simple ingredient into something crave-worthy. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
Crispy Perfection: The tofu gets irresistibly crunchy on the outside while staying soft inside.
Bold & Spicy: Coated in a flavorful glaze with just the right amount of heat.
Quick & Easy: Simple steps, minimal ingredients, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Vegan & Protein-Packed: A plant-based dish that’s satisfying and full of protein.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level or toss it in your favorite sauce.
Ingredients in Spicy Crispy Tofu
Tofu & Coating
Extra-Firm Tofu: The key to crispiness! Pressed tofu holds its shape and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Cornstarch: Helps create that perfect crunchy coating.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the tofu’s flavor.
Garlic Powder: Adds a hint of savory depth.
Oil: For frying or air-frying—use a neutral oil like avocado or vegetable oil.
Spicy Glaze
Soy Sauce: Brings umami and depth to the glaze.
Sriracha: For a fiery kick—adjust the amount to your spice preference.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a little tang to brighten the flavors.
Sesame Oil: A finishing touch for a hint of nutty richness.
Minced Garlic & Ginger: The flavor duo that makes everything better.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Prep the Tofu
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Toss with cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
Cook the Tofu
Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes in a single layer and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides. If air-frying, cook at [temperature] for [time], shaking the basket halfway through.
Make the Spicy Glaze
In a small saucepan, mix soy sauce, sriracha, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
Coat the Tofu
Toss the crispy tofu in the spicy glaze until fully coated. Let it soak up all that goodness!
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately over rice, in a wrap, or as a snack. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
How to Serve Spicy Crispy Tofu
Over Rice: Classic and comforting—add steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
In a Wrap: Stuff it into a tortilla with lettuce, avocado, and extra sauce.
With Noodles: Toss it into stir-fried noodles for a satisfying dish.
As a Snack: Dip it in extra sauce and enjoy it on its own!
Additional Tips
Press Your Tofu: Removing excess water is key to crispiness. Use a tofu press or wrap it in paper towels and place a heavy object on top for at least 15 minutes.
Use High Heat: A hot pan helps create that golden, crispy crust.
Adjust the Spice: Love extra heat? Add chili flakes or more sriracha. Prefer mild? Reduce the spice and add a little more maple syrup.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to [time duration]. Reheat in a pan or air fryer to keep the crispiness.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I bake this instead of frying?
A1: Yes! Bake at [temperature] for [time], flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Q2: How do I make this gluten-free?
A2: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
Q3: What’s the best way to reheat crispy tofu?
A3: Reheat in a hot pan or air fryer to bring back the crispiness. Avoid the microwave—it makes it soggy.
Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
A4: You can prep the tofu and sauce in advance, but for the best texture, toss them together just before serving.
Q5: How do I prevent tofu from sticking to the pan?
A5: Use a nonstick pan or make sure your oil is hot before adding the tofu.
Q6: Can I use a different protein?
A6: Yes! Try this with tempeh, chickpeas, or even cauliflower for a fun twist.
Q7: What’s a good side dish for this tofu?
A7: Try it with stir-fried veggies, quinoa, or an Asian-style slaw.
Q8: Is this dish meal-prep friendly?
A8: Yes! Store the tofu and sauce separately, then toss them together before eating.
Q9: Can I use silken tofu instead of firm?
A9: Not recommended—silken tofu is too soft and won’t get crispy.
Q10: How do I make this less spicy?
A10: Reduce the sriracha and add a little extra maple syrup for a milder glaze.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Crispy Tofu is everything you want—crunchy, flavorful, and totally addictive. Whether you’re serving it over rice, in a wrap, or eating it straight from the pan, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot. Give it a try and let me know how you love to serve it! Happy cooking!
Print
Spicy Crispy Tofu
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Spicy Crispy Tofu is the perfect combination of crunchy, spicy, and savory flavors. Coated in cornstarch and fried until golden, then tossed in a flavorful sauce with garlic, chili flakes, and soy sauce, this tofu dish is an easy and delicious plant-based meal!
Ingredients
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1 block firm tofu, cubed
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1/4 cup cornstarch
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2 tbsp oil (for frying)
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1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp sesame seeds
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3 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp vinegar (rice vinegar or white vinegar)
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1 tsp sugar
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 green onions, chopped
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1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
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Prepare the Tofu:
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Drain the tofu and press it using a paper towel or tofu press to remove excess moisture.
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Cut into bite-sized cubes.
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Coat the Tofu:
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Toss the tofu cubes in cornstarch until fully coated.
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Fry the Tofu:
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Heat oil in a pan or wok over medium heat.
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Fry the tofu cubes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
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Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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Make the Sauce:
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In a small bowl, mix together chili flakes, sesame seeds, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, green onions, and cilantro.
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Toss the Tofu:
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Add the fried tofu to the sauce and toss well until evenly coated.
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Serve & Enjoy:
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Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
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Notes
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Crisp it up in an air fryer or skillet for the best texture.
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Extra Flavor: Add sesame oil for a nutty aroma.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: bowl
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg