Honey Garlic Tofu: Sweet, Savory, and Perfectly Crispy
Honey garlic tofu is a flavorful and versatile plant-based dish that combines sweet, sticky honey with the savory depth of garlic and soy. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this tofu recipe transforms a simple ingredient into a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions.
What makes honey garlic tofu so irresistible is the balance of flavors. The sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with aromatic garlic, while soy sauce adds umami richness that elevates every bite. Lightly crisping the tofu ensures a satisfying texture, making each piece a little crunchy on the outside yet soft and silky inside. This recipe is not only delicious but also highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables, spices, or garnishes.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a table of ingredients for Honey Garlic Tofu, with approximate calorie counts for the full recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Firm tofu | 14 oz (400 g) | 320 kcal |
| Olive oil or sesame oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 kcal |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves | 18 kcal |
| Honey | 3 tablespoons | 192 kcal |
| Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) | 3 tablespoons | 30 kcal |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon | 3 kcal |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons | 60 kcal |
| Water | ¼ cup | 0 kcal |
| Green onions, chopped (optional) | 2 tablespoons | 2 kcal |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | 1 teaspoon | 16 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the tofu
Drain and press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes. - Coat the tofu
In a small bowl, toss tofu cubes with cornstarch until evenly coated. This helps create a crispy exterior when cooking. - Cook the tofu
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside. - Make the honey garlic sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix well and simmer for 1–2 minutes. - Combine tofu and sauce
Return the tofu to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the tofu to absorb the flavors. - Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Vegan alternative: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Add veggies: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a complete stir-fry.
- Spice it up: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Extra crispiness: Bake tofu at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before adding the sauce.
- Soy-free option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, recipe serves 2)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Calcium, iron, potassium, antioxidants from garlic |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
- Toss with stir-fried vegetables and noodles for a complete dinner bowl.
- Use as a protein-packed filling for wraps or lettuce cups.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.
Honey Garlic Tofu: Sweet, Savory, and Perfectly Crispy
2–3
servings15
minutes15
minutes450
kcalIngredients
14 oz (400 g) firm or extra-firm tofu
2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ cup water
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
- Press the tofu
- Drain and press tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess water. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Coat the tofu
- Toss tofu cubes in cornstarch until evenly coated. This creates a crispy exterior when cooked.
- Cook the tofu
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the honey garlic sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Combine tofu and sauce
- Return tofu to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce. Cook 1–2 more minutes until fully coated and heated through.
- Garnish and serve
- Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve over rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Press tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture and achieve a crispy texture.
For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Toss tofu in cornstarch before cooking to get a golden, crispy exterior.
FAQs
1. Can I make honey garlic tofu ahead of time?
Yes! Cooked honey garlic tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make the recipe fully vegan without compromising on flavor.
3. How can I make the tofu extra crispy?
Press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture, coat it in cornstarch, and pan-fry over medium heat until golden brown. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before adding the sauce also works well.
4. Can I use firm or extra-firm tofu?
Extra-firm tofu is ideal for this recipe as it holds its shape and crisps nicely. Firm tofu can also work, but be sure to press it well to remove moisture.
5. Can I add vegetables to honey garlic tofu?
Yes! Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots pair wonderfully. Add them to the skillet after the garlic step and cook until just tender before tossing in the tofu.
Conclusion
Honey garlic tofu is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, offering a simple yet impressive plant-based dish. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or vegetables, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prep. With easy customization options, this recipe can be adapted to suit vegan, gluten-free, or spicy preferences. Delicious, nutrient-rich, and satisfying, honey garlic tofu proves that plant-based cooking can be flavorful, comforting, and effortlessly delicious.
